Indulge in the sweet satisfaction of baking a delightful blueberry quick bread with this mouthwatering recipe. Bursting with juicy blueberries and infused with aromatic flavors, this blueberry loaf is the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a cozy dessert, this blueberry bread recipe promises to delight your taste buds with every bite. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create this irresistible blueberry muffin bread that’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.
blueberry bread recipe
how to make blueberry bread
Here’s a step-by-step recipe for blueberry bread:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1/2 cup milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- In a small bowl, toss the fresh blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour until they are lightly coated. This helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the bread while baking.
- Gently fold the floured blueberries into the batter using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the blueberry bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Slice the cooled blueberry bread and serve it as desired. Enjoy the moist and flavorful blueberry loaf on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.
- Store any leftover blueberry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade blueberry bread!
tips blueberry bread recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your blueberry bread turns out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture to your bread. If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent them from bleeding and discoloring the bread.
- Coat Blueberries with Flour: Tossing the blueberries in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the bread while baking.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a tough and dense loaf.
- Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to the bread. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes until it curdles.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures may vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Allow the blueberry bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the bread from breaking apart when slicing.
- Slice Carefully: Use a serrated knife to slice the cooled bread gently to maintain its shape and texture.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a moist, flavorful, and delicious blueberry bread that everyone will love. Enjoy!
customization ideas for blueberry bread recipe
Here are some customization ideas to elevate your blueberry bread recipe:
| Customization | Description |
|---|---|
| Streusel Topping | Add a crunchy streusel topping made with flour, sugar, and butter for an extra layer of texture and sweetness. |
| Lemon Glaze | Drizzle a tangy lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice over the cooled bread for a burst of citrus flavor. |
| Almond Extract | Enhance the flavor of the bread by adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty undertone. |
| Orange Zest | Mix in grated orange zest to infuse the bread with bright citrus notes that complement the sweetness of the blueberries. |
| Nutty Crunch | Stir in chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added crunch and richness. |
| Spiced Variation | Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the batter for a cozy and aromatic twist. |
| Cream Cheese Swirl | Create a cream cheese swirl by layering dollops of sweetened cream cheese between the batter for a creamy and decadent addition. |
| Coconut Flakes | Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the batter before baking for a tropical flair and extra texture. |
| Chocolate Chips | Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the juicy blueberries. |
| Berry Medley | Mix different types of berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries with the blueberries for a colorful and flavorful medley. |
Feel free to customize your blueberry bread with any combination of these delicious additions to create a unique and flavorful treat!
nutritional table for blueberry bread recipe
Here’s a basic nutritional table for homemade blueberry bread per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (1 slice)* |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 calories |
| Total Fat | ~8-10 grams |
| Saturated Fat | ~4-6 grams |
| Cholesterol | ~40-50 milligrams |
| Sodium | ~150-200 milligrams |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~30-35 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1-2 grams |
| Sugars | ~15-20 grams |
| Protein | ~3-5 grams |
*Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe. Adjustments may be necessary depending on the exact recipe and serving size. It’s always a good idea to calculate the nutritional information based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
How do you keep blueberries from sinking in blueberry bread?
To prevent blueberries from sinking in blueberry bread, you can try the following techniques:
- Coat the Blueberries: Toss the fresh blueberries in a small amount of flour (from the total amount specified in the recipe) before adding them to the batter. This helps to lightly coat the berries and create a thin barrier that can help them stay suspended in the batter while baking.
- Use Frozen Blueberries: If fresh blueberries tend to sink, you can use frozen blueberries instead. Frozen blueberries are firmer and hold their shape better during baking, reducing the likelihood of sinking.
- Reserve Some Batter: Before adding the blueberries to the batter, pour a small amount of batter into the loaf pan and spread it evenly across the bottom. Then, gently place the blueberries on top of the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the blueberries, covering them completely. This can help distribute the weight of the blueberries more evenly throughout the batter.
- Adjust the Batter Consistency: Make sure the batter is thick enough to hold the blueberries in suspension. If the batter is too thin, the blueberries are more likely to sink. You can adjust the consistency of the batter by adding a little extra flour if needed.
By using one or a combination of these techniques, you can help prevent blueberries from sinking in your blueberry bread and ensure an evenly distributed berry distribution throughout the loaf.
How do you store blueberry loaf?
By following these storage tips, you can prolong the freshness of your blueberry loaf and enjoy it for several days or even weeks to come. To store blueberry loaf properly and maintain its freshness, follow these steps:
- Cool Completely: Allow the blueberry loaf to cool completely on a wire rack after removing it from the oven. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the loaf soggy.
- Wrap Well: Once the blueberry loaf has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that the entire loaf is covered to protect it from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
- Store at Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the blueberry loaf within 2-3 days, you can store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place, such as a bread box or a sealed container. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Refrigerate for Longer Storage: If you need to store the blueberry loaf for longer than 3 days, it’s best to refrigerate it. Place the wrapped loaf in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag before storing it in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its moisture and freshness.
- Freeze for Extended Storage: For even longer storage, you can freeze the blueberry loaf. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen blueberry loaf in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, you can warm individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving if desired.
Does putting a loaf of bread in the fridge make it last longer?
Putting a loaf of bread in the fridge can help extend its shelf life by slowing down the growth of mold and delaying staling. However, refrigerating bread can also cause it to dry out and become stale faster than if stored at room temperature. The cool, dry environment of the refrigerator can remove moisture from the bread, resulting in a less-than-optimal texture and flavor.
To maximize the shelf life of bread, it’s best to store it in a cool, dark place at room temperature, such as in a bread box or a sealed plastic bag. If you don’t plan to consume the bread within a few days, you can freeze it instead. Simply wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. Frozen bread can be thawed at room temperature or gently reheated in the oven to restore its texture and freshness.
FAQ’S
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones in the blueberry bread recipe. However, do not thaw the frozen blueberries before adding them to the batter to prevent them from bleeding and discoloring the bread. Coat the frozen blueberries with a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter to help prevent sinking during baking.
How do I prevent blueberries from sinking in blueberry bread?
To prevent blueberries from sinking in blueberry bread, you can coat them with a small amount of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps create a thin barrier around the blueberries, allowing them to stay suspended evenly throughout the bread while baking.
Can I omit the streusel topping to make the bread less sweet?
Yes, you can omit the streusel topping if you prefer a less sweet blueberry bread. Simply skip the step of adding the streusel topping before baking. The bread will still be delicious and flavorful with just the natural sweetness from the blueberries.
What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk in the recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes until it curdles. This homemade buttermilk substitute works well in most baking recipes, including blueberry bread.
Can I freeze blueberry bread for later consumption?
Yes, you can freeze blueberry bread for later consumption. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the frozen bread in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before serving.
How should I store leftover blueberry bread to maintain its freshness?
To maintain the freshness of leftover blueberry bread, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep the bread at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate it for longer storage. Rewarm individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving, if desired.
Can I use different types of berries in the blueberry bread recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of berries in the blueberry bread recipe or mix them with blueberries for a delicious variation. Raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, or a combination of berries can all be used interchangeably with blueberries to create a flavorful and colorful bread.
Can I make blueberry bread without eggs for a vegan option?
Yes, you can make blueberry bread without eggs for a vegan option by using a suitable egg substitute. Common egg substitutes for baking include mashed bananas, unsweetened applesauce, flaxseed meal mixed with water, or commercial egg replacers. Use the equivalent amount of egg substitute as specified in the recipe.
How do I adjust the baking time and temperature if using a different size of loaf pan?
If using a different size of loaf pan than the one specified in the recipe, you may need to adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly. A smaller loaf pan may require a longer baking time, while a larger loaf pan may require a shorter baking time. Monitor the bread closely and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. Adjust the baking time as needed until the toothpick comes out clean. Additionally, you may need to adjust the oven temperature slightly higher or lower to ensure even baking.