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 cup fresh or frozen 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 granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I love making this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread when I want to brighten up an afternoon with a cup of tea. The combination of vibrant blueberries and zesty lemon makes every slice a delightful treat. It’s moist, flavorful, and the citrus aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes. Whether you're serving it at brunch or enjoying it as a snack, this bread is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh or frozen blueberries, making it a year-round favorite!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:35:34.617Z

When I first discovered this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread recipe, I was immediately drawn to its bright flavors and lovely texture. Baking it has become a cherished afternoon ritual for me. The trick is to blend the lemon zest with the sugar before adding it to the batter, which truly enhances the citrus notes and infuses every bite with that refreshing brightness.

Each time I make this bread, I like to experiment a little, sometimes adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract for a unique twist. It’s such a simple recipe, but the flavor is elevated by using high-quality ingredients, especially the blueberries. They pop in your mouth, providing delightful bursts of sweetness that perfectly complement the lemony flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh blueberry flavor paired with zesty lemon
Moist and tender crumb that's simply irresistible
Perfect for enjoying with tea or as a breakfast delight

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread depends on mixing your ingredients properly. Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense bread. Gently folding in the blueberries at the end ensures that they remain intact and distributed without mashing them, preserving bursts of berry flavor in each slice.

Additionally, the fat’s role in this recipe, provided by the unsalted butter, is crucial for creating a tender crumb. If you find that your bread often turns out dry, consider adding a bit of extra lemon juice or zest to increase moisture without sacrificing flavor.

Customize Your Bread

Feel free to get creative with your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread! You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm aroma that complements the fruity and citrus notes. For a nutty twist, add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. You can also substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to enhance the bread’s nutty flavor and increase its fiber content.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol or coconut sugar, but be aware that the bread’s texture may change slightly. Make sure to taste the batter before baking, as this can help you gauge whether adjustments in sweetness are needed.

Ingredients

For the Bread

1 cup fresh or frozen 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 granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons lemon zest
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Make sure to gently fold the blueberries into the batter to prevent them from breaking and turning the bread blue.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add Lemon Flavors

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract if using.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Glaze (Optional)

If desired, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze and drizzle over the cooled bread.

Enjoy this delicious bread with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack throughout the day!

Pro Tips

Try using a mixture of blueberries and raspberries for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Though the bread can dry out a bit in the fridge, reheating a slice in the microwave can bring back its moist texture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing your bread. After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the toaster briefly.

Serving Suggestions

This Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is delightful on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone. The creamy texture balances the bread's moisture and complements its tartness. You might also enjoy it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze for added sweetness.

Consider serving this bread as part of a brunch spread alongside a light salad or yogurt parfait. It also makes a lovely addition to a picnic basket, providing a delicious handheld treat. Enjoy it with your favorite tea or coffee for an afternoon break that feels refreshing and indulgent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries directly in the batter without thawing.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

→ Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.