Blueberry Lemon Swirl Bread

Soft, moist, and bursting with juicy blueberries, this Blueberry Lemon Swirl Bread combines bright lemon flavor with a sweet berry swirl. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a simple homemade dessert with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

For the Blueberry Swirl

• ½ cup blueberries
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
6. Make the swirl: Place the ½ cup blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat for several minutes, lightly mashing the berries until they form a thick, jam-like mixture. Let it cool slightly.
7. Layer the batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the blueberry mixture over it, then add the remaining batter.
8. Create the swirl: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the blueberry mixture through the batter. Don’t overmix.
9. Bake: Bake for approximately 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
10. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Add the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest together. Drizzle over the cooled bread before slicing.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes. Frozen blueberries can be used without thawing, although they may add a little extra baking time.

Q: How do I keep the bread moist?
Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake it. Store the cooled bread tightly covered.

Q: Can I make this without the glaze?
Absolutely. The bread is delicious on its own, but the lemon glaze adds extra sweetness and fresh citrus flavor.

Q: Can I use another berry?
Yes. Raspberries or blackberries would make delicious alternatives.

Q: How should I store it?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for longer storage.

Nutrition

Blueberries provide antioxidants and natural fruit flavor, while lemon adds fresh citrus notes and vitamin C. Exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients and slice size.

Conclusion

Blueberry Lemon Swirl Bread is a beautiful combination of sweet berries and refreshing lemon. The soft loaf, fruity swirl, and tangy glaze make every slice bright, moist, and delicious.