Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf

Name: Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ¼ cup plain yogurt; ½ cup lemon juice; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Highlighted under: Cozy Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore baking this Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf every summer when the berries are at their peak. The sweet and tangy combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates a delightful flavor explosion. I love how the aromatic citrus scent fills my kitchen as it bakes, making it nearly impossible to resist slicing into it while it's still warm. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a delightful afternoon snack, this loaf is a true treat that brings joy to every gathering.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:33:35.855Z

Baking this Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf has become one of my favorite traditions. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of lemon zest combined with fresh blueberries wafting through my home was simply irresistible. The first slice was a revelation—a delicious balance of tart and sweet that I couldn’t get enough of.

I discovered that adding a bit of yogurt to the batter keeps the loaf incredibly moist while enhancing the flavor. Trust me, this little trick is a game changer for loaf cakes and muffins alike!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The vibrant flavors of blueberry and lemon burst in every bite.
Perfectly moist texture that complements the rustic crust.
Ideal for sharing at brunch or special occasions.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh blueberries is essential for this Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf. Not only do they burst with juiciness, but they also contribute to the loaf’s moist texture. I recommend selecting plump berries that have a deep blue color and a slight shine. If fresh blueberries are unavailable, you can opt for frozen ones; just ensure they are not thawed beforehand, as this can make the batter too wet and lead to a denser loaf.

Lemon zest is another key ingredient that elevates this loaf. The zest adds a vibrant flavor that complements the berries beautifully. For the best results, use a microplane to finely grate the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. If you're short on lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a practical substitute, but it won’t have the same fresh aroma that a fresh zest provides.

Technique Tips for Baking Success

When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy mixture. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for a light rise during baking. If your mixture isn’t turning fluffy, you might need to whip it longer or ensure your butter is softened adequately—cold butter won’t create the desired texture. As a helpful tip, cut butter into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.

It’s also vital to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can make the loaf dense instead of giving it that lovely rustic crumb. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, then gently fold in the blueberries with care, lest they burst and turn the batter a vibrant purple. Using a spatula instead of a whisk helps minimize overmixing and keeps the batter airy.

Ingredients

For the loaf

1 cup fresh blueberries
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
¼ cup plain yogurt
½ cup lemon juice

For the glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Prepare the batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Combine ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt and lemon juice. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake the loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the glaze

While the loaf is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the loaf

Once the loaf has cooled for 10 minutes, remove it from the pan and drizzle the glaze over the top before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try adding some chopped ginger to the batter. Also, using frozen blueberries works just as well—just don’t thaw them beforehand to prevent color bleeding.

Storage and Freezing Options

This Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. When storing, make sure it is completely cooled to prevent condensation from forming, which could make the loaf soggy. If you're not planning to eat it within that timeframe, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months.

To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. If you're in a hurry, you can slice pieces and microwave them for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through. This quick reheating method also softens the loaf, making it taste freshly baked again!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To enhance the enjoyment of this loaf, serve it slightly warmed with a pat of butter or a dollop of whipped cream cheese for added richness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it the perfect accompaniment for brunch or an afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of poppy seeds into the batter or lemon zest in the glaze for added texture and flavor complexity.

If you're looking to modify the recipe, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour without compromising the loaf’s flavor. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for best results. You can also experiment by adding chia seeds or swapping blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well! Just add them directly to the batter without thawing.

→ How do I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use sour cream or buttermilk as a substitute for yogurt.

→ What if I want a sweeter loaf?

Feel free to increase the sugar by ¼ cup if you prefer a sweeter taste.