Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp lemon zest; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Baking Joy

I absolutely adore this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread! It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that brightens up my afternoons. Each slice boasts fresh blueberries and zesty lemon, creating a refreshing treat perfect alongside my cup of tea. Baking this bread fills my kitchen with such a wonderful aroma that I can barely wait for it to cool before I dive in. It’s simple yet elegant, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:15:36.493Z

When I first stumbled upon this blueberry lemon tea bread recipe, I knew I had to try it. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries sounded heavenly. After a few experiments, I learned the secret was to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The key is to gently fold in the blueberries to avoid breaking them, ensuring you get those beautifully intact bursts of fruit in every bite!

Another thing I discovered is that letting the bread rest for a bit after baking enhances its flavor. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the texture becomes even more delightful. I like to serve it warm with a pat of butter, which makes it an irresistible treat that I often bake for family gatherings or cozy weekend mornings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy blueberries bursting with flavor
Refreshing lemon zest adds a citrusy kick
Perfectly moist and tender texture

Baking Tips for Success

When making Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, use room temperature ingredients to achieve a more uniform batter. This simple step helps the butter cream more easily with the sugar, leading to a light and airy texture. It’s best to measure your flour accurately; I recommend spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly, which can compact the flour and result in a denser bread.

Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If it’s still wet, continue baking in 5-minute increments, making sure the top doesn’t over-brown. Cover with aluminum foil if the edges start to darken too quickly.

Flavor Enhancements

For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. A teaspoon of cinnamon in the dry ingredients can complement the sweetness of the blueberries and the brightness of the lemon zest beautifully. Additionally, a splash of almond extract can bring about a wonderful nuttiness that pairs nicely with the butter and fruit.

You can also play with the acidity by adjusting the amount of lemon zest or even adding a bit of lemon juice. A tablespoon or so will brighten the flavor without compromising the moisture. If you prefer a less tangy profile, a sweeter fruit like ripe bananas or peaches can substitute half of the blueberries, creating a delicious variation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious bread:

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon zest
½ cup buttermilk
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, slice and enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a lemon glaze on top of the bread after it has cooled. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to your desired consistency and drizzle over the loaf.

Storage and Freezing

This Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread stores well for up to four days at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness. If you plan to enjoy it later, considering the freezer is a great option. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months.

To thaw, simply remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for one to two hours. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in a toaster or microwave for a warm treat that closely approximates freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this tea bread warm or at room temperature, either plain or with a light spread of butter. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can elevate it even further. Pairing this bread with a refreshing cup of tea or a dollop of whipped cream adds an elegant touch for a brunch gathering.

For a more festive presentation, slice the loaf and layer it with fresh berries or a scoop of homemade lemon curd for an impressive dessert. You could even serve it alongside a fruit salad for a delightful breakfast spread, making it versatile for any meal of the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to toss them in a bit of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

→ How should I store leftover bread?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use multiple loaf pans or bake them in batches.