Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Ideas

I absolutely adore this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread! The combination of tart lemons and sweet blueberries creates a heavenly taste that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. I love serving it with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. The moist, tender crumb pairs beautifully with the subtle citrus, making each slice delightful. It’s simple to make, and the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it for yourself.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:33:35.664Z

When I first came up with this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread recipe, I knew I wanted to capture the essence of summer in a loaf. After experimenting with several recipes, I found that adding a hint of sour cream not only keeps the bread moist but also enhances the tangy lemon flavor. The pop of blueberries throughout provides little bursts of sweetness that contrast perfectly with the bright citrus notes. I like to drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for an extra indulgence!

Another detail that made all the difference for me was the addition of lemon zest, which infuses that fresh flavor right into the bread. Using fresh blueberries is key as well; frozen ones can sometimes lead to a soggy texture. I promise that when you bake this, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll have a delicious snack that everyone will fight over!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty lemon flavor combines perfectly with juicy blueberries
Incredibly moist and tender crumb that is irresistible
A wonderful option for breakfast, brunch, or snack time

The Role of Citrus in Baking

Citrus fruits, particularly lemons, play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor profiles of baked goods. The acidity from the lemon juice interacts with the baking soda, allowing for a better rise and creating a light, fluffy texture. In this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, the lemon zest intensifies the citrus aroma and adds depth to the overall flavor, making each bite refreshing and vibrant.

When incorporating lemon juice in recipes, it's essential to use freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled versions. Fresh juice carries a more robust flavor and brightness, elevating your baked goods significantly. You can also add a bit of lemon extract if you desire a deeper citrus flavor without increasing the moisture.

Perfecting Your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

To achieve that perfect moist crumb, ensure that you do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can activate gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher texture. Instead, mix until just combined, and remember that a few lumps are entirely acceptable. You’ll want to see a thick, batter-like consistency, not a smooth, homogenous mixture.

Choosing the right blueberries is also key to your success. Opt for fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor and juiciness. If you only have frozen blueberries, they can still work, but make sure to add them straight from the freezer, as thawing can lead to excess moisture, which might alter the bread's density.

Ingredients

For the Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions

Instructions

Directions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra lemony finish, consider adding a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice on top of the cooled bread.

Storing and Freezing

Once your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can last for about 2-3 days at room temperature. For prolonged storage, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. This makes it convenient to grab a slice whenever you want a taste of this delightful treat.

To thaw, simply remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the slices to warm them up, enhancing the aroma and revitalizing the flavors before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a breakfast boost, try serving it with a smear of cream cheese or lemon-flavored butter. The creamy texture complements the moist bread while adding a tart element that harmonizes with the blueberries and lemon.

If you're looking for a delightful afternoon snack, enjoy a slice with a hot cup of your favorite tea or coffee. The warmth of the beverage balances the fruity flavors of the bread, making it a cozy treat any time of the day. Adding some candied lemon peel or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

While fresh blueberries are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to toss them in flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking.

→ How should I store this bread?

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

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix instead of all-purpose flour.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness?

Feel free to reduce the sugar in the recipe if you prefer a less sweet bread. Start by reducing it by 1/4 cup and taste the batter before baking.