Baking & Desserts Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
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 tbsp lemon zest; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; ¾ cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I absolutely adore this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake! The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a perfect harmony that brightens up any day. Each bite offers a delightful balance of citrus and berry flavors, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. I love how easy it is to whip up this loaf, and it always impresses my friends and family. It’s the perfect way to showcase in-season blueberries, and the aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:03:34.943Z

When I first tried making this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake, I didn't expect it to become a favorite. I wanted a simple recipe that would bring out the fresh flavors of summer, and this one exceeded my expectations. The bright lemon zest and juice enhance the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a loaf that is bursting with flavor!

One key tip I learned is to gently fold the blueberries into the batter to prevent them from breaking apart, which helps maintain the loaf's beautiful appearance. Plus, I always use a toothpick to test for doneness, ensuring a perfectly moist cake that my family can’t resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor with a hint of sweetness from fresh blueberries
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients of this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake play a vital role in achieving its delightful flavor and moist texture. The combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda provides the perfect structure, allowing the cake to rise beautifully without being overly dense. The use of unsalted butter not only adds richness but also allows you to control the salt level, ensuring the balance of flavors shines through. Fresh blueberries provide bursts of sweetness and moisture, making each slice a delightful experience.

When it comes to citrus, the zesty lemon peel and juice elevate the overall taste profile. The lemon zest contains essential oils that add an aromatic quality to the cake, while the juice helps to tenderize the batter. If you’re out of fresh lemons, you can substitute bottled lemon juice, keeping in mind that using fresh is always preferred for the best flavor. Alternatively, lime zest and juice can be a delightful twist if you're looking for something different.

Baking and Cooling Tips

Baking the loaf requires keen attention to time and temperature for the best results. An oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) is ideal, but always remember that oven temperatures can vary. Checking for doneness with a toothpick is crucial; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top of your loaf browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil after the first 30 minutes to prevent over-baking while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly.

Once removed from the oven, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step prevents the cake from becoming soggy on the bottom. Allowing it to cool completely before glazing is also essential; otherwise, the glaze might melt and lose its beautiful finish. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, this loaf can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the freezer for up to two months.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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 tbsp lemon zest
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
¾ cup fresh blueberries

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bake the Loaf

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

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice for the glaze. Adjust the consistency as needed.

Glaze the Cake

Once cooled, remove the loaf from the pan, drizzle with glaze, and slice.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter. You can also swap out some of the blueberries for raspberries for a delightful twist.

Glazing and Serving Suggestions

The optional glaze adds a delightful citrusy sweetness to the loaf. To achieve the perfect consistency, start with a small amount of lemon juice and gradually add it to the powdered sugar until you reach a pourable consistency that still holds its shape on the cake. You can drizzle it over the top or dip the loaf in the glaze for a more decadent finish. For a decorative touch, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or additional blueberries on top of the glaze for a burst of color.

This cake is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a breakfast treat with coffee or tea alongside a dollop of yogurt for added protein. It also makes a wonderful snack on its own or dressed up with whipped cream for dessert. Adding a few slices of lemon or some fresh mint leaves on the plate elevates the presentation, transforming it into a gourmet offering perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your loaf turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or measuring the flour incorrectly. To avoid this, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. It’s also important to mix the batter until just combined – a few lumps are okay; overmixing activates gluten and can lead to a tough texture.

Another common issue is uneven baking. If your loaf browns on the outside but remains undercooked inside, you might need to adjust the baking time or temperature based on your oven’s calibration. If you find this happens frequently, consider checking your oven with an external thermometer to ensure it’s accurately reflecting your set temperature. Baking in the center of the oven often provides the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well too! Just do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.