Lemon Glazed Blueberry Vanilla Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Glazed Blueberry Vanilla Bread Recipe is a delightful and flavorful treat that combines the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of blueberries, and the warmth of vanilla. It’s a perfect recipe for anyone looking to create a delicious and moist bread that’s sure to impress family and friends. What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy days or special occasions. With this recipe, you can unleash your creativity and enjoy a delicious homemade bread that’s sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe is what makes it truly special. The tartness of the lemon glaze perfectly complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the warmth of the vanilla, creating a delightful taste experience.
• The ingredients used in this recipe are easily accessible and can be found in most grocery stores, making it convenient to prepare.
• The preparation process is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for beginners or experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 cup lemon glaze (see below for recipe)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together the butter, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Gently fold in the blueberries.
4. Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
5. Step 5: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Step 6: Once the bread is cool, drizzle it with the lemon glaze and serve.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense bread.
• If using frozen blueberries, thaw them first and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• To ensure the bread is fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. It should read 190°F (88°C) for a fully cooked bread.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking this bread is 350°F (180°C). It’s essential to keep an eye on the bread while it’s baking, as the baking time may vary depending on your oven’s temperature accuracy. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

Crunch Factor

This bread is meant to be moist and tender, with a delicate crumb. To achieve this, make sure to not overmix the batter, and avoid overbaking. The lemon glaze adds a nice sweetness and a bit of crunch to the bread, but it’s not meant to be a crunchy bread overall.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure the bread is evenly baked, rotate the loaf pan halfway through the baking time.
• Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Don’t overglaze the bread, as this can make it too sweet. Start with a small amount of glaze and add more to taste.

Storage Tips

• Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze the bread for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheat the bread by wrapping it in foil and baking at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This bread is perfect for gifting to friends and family. Consider wrapping it in a decorative paper or cloth, and adding a ribbon or gift tag. You could also include a jar of homemade lemon curd or a packet of artisanal coffee to complement the bread.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to the batter for a unique flavor.
• Use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version.
• Swap out the blueberries for other fruits, such as raspberries or cranberries, for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• If the bread is too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Try mixing the ingredients just until combined, and avoid overmixing.
• If the bread is too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Try reducing the baking time by 5-10 minutes, and check the bread frequently to avoid overcooking.
• If the glaze is too thick, try thinning it out with a little more lemon juice or powdered sugar.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the bread? Yes, the bread can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is the bread gluten-free? No, the bread contains all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and bake in two 9×5-inch loaf pans.

Conclusion

This Lemon Glazed Blueberry Vanilla Bread Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist and tender crumb, sweet and tangy glaze, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious and special.