Whole Wheat Lemon Blueberry Bread: A Healthy and Delicious Recipe

Whole Wheat Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of juicy blueberries. As I embarked on my culinary journey, I discovered that this recipe not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also offers a healthier twist on traditional bread. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and a hearty texture, making each slice a wholesome indulgence. This bread has roots in various cultures, where the combination of citrus and berries has long been celebrated for its refreshing taste and vibrant colors.

People love Whole Wheat Lemon Blueberry Bread for its moist crumb and the burst of flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and it’s incredibly easy to make. The convenience of whipping up this delicious bread in just one bowl makes it a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Join me as we dive into the delightful world of baking this wholesome bread!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if out of season)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Loaf Pan**: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal later. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour. 4. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The air incorporated during this step will help your bread rise. 5. **Add Eggs and Flavorings**: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The zest and juice will give your bread a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with the blueberries. 6. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. 7. **Incorporate Yogurt**: Gently fold in the Greek yogurt. This will add moisture to the bread and keep it tender. 8. **Add Blueberries**: Finally, fold in the blueberries. If you’re using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just toss them in straight from the freezer. This helps prevent them from bleeding into the batter and turning it blue.

Cooking Process

9. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking. 10. **Bake the Bread**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. I recommend checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it comes out wet, give it an additional 5-10 minutes. 11. **Cool the Bread**: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Assembling and Serving

12. **Slice the Bread**: Once the bread has cooled completely, use a serrated knife to slice it. I find that cutting it while it’s still warm can lead to crumbling, so patience is key here! 13. **Optional Glaze**: If you want to take your lemon blueberry bread to the next level, consider making a simple lemon glaze. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled bread for a sweet and tangy finish. 14. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again. 15. **Serving Suggestions**: This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. 16. **Enjoying the Bread**: As you take your first bite

Conclusion:

In summary, this Whole Wheat Lemon Blueberry Bread is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously wholesome treat. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a delightful flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Not only is it a healthier alternative to traditional bread, but it also packs a nutritional punch with the goodness of whole wheat flour and fresh fruit. For serving suggestions, I love to enjoy a warm slice straight out of the oven, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. You can also pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. You could even swap out the blueberries for raspberries or strawberries, depending on what you have on hand! I encourage you to give this Whole Wheat Lemon Blueberry Bread a try and experience the joy it brings to your kitchen. Once you’ve baked it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful recipe together! Happy baking! Print