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

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I absolutely love baking this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread on bright, sunny mornings. The combination of juicy blueberries and zesty lemon creates a delightful explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. Each slice is moist and tender, making it a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. I especially enjoy how the fresh lemon zest brightens the bread, lifting my spirits even on the cloudiest of days. Trust me, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a sweet yet tangy flavor profile.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:09:36.503Z

I’ve experimented with various lemon tea bread recipes, but this one stands out because of the balance of sweetness from the blueberries and a slight tartness from the lemon. The trick to achieving the perfect texture is to not overmix the batter; doing so can result in a denser loaf. I usually mix until just combined, ensuring those pockets of blueberries remain intact, adding bursts of flavor with every bite.

Whenever I make this bread, my family can’t resist sneaking slices while it cools, and the aroma wafting through the house is simply irresistible. To enhance the lemon flavor, I often add a lemon glaze on top after baking. This extra step elevates the bread and makes it even more delightful alongside my favorite afternoon tea!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy to prepare, great for any occasion

Understanding Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread stands out not just for its unique sweet and tart flavor profile, but also for its moist texture. The combination of fresh blueberries and bright lemon zest creates a delightful contrast that keeps each bite interesting. The acidity from the lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the blueberries, while the butter contributes a rich mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience. This bread is versatile enough to be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even toasted with a spread of butter.

When baking this tea bread, it's crucial to handle the blueberries gently. Overmixing can lead to a purple streaked bread instead of the desired bursts of fruit. It's best to fold the blueberries in last, ensuring they are evenly distributed yet intact throughout the batter. Additionally, using fresh blueberries will provide a juicy texture, while frozen blueberries can also work if you let them thaw and drain excess moisture beforehand, although they may bleed a little more into the batter.

Essential Tips for the Perfect Loaf

For optimal baking results, preheating the oven to the correct temperature is vital. An improperly heated oven can cause the bread to rise unevenly, leading to a dense texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, especially if your oven tends to run hot or cold. The ideal baking time for this loaf is between 50 to 55 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted into the center that comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning.

If you're short on time, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for several hours before baking. However, it's best to bake it the same day for the freshest flavor. Leftover bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, or you can freeze it for longer shelf life. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Bread

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

For the Lemon Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread:

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. If using the glaze, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bread.

Slice and serve with your favorite tea for a delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding additional lemon zest to the glaze. If you're making this ahead of time, the bread freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy it later.

Variations and Substitutions

While the recipe calls for fresh blueberries, don’t hesitate to experiment with other berries such as raspberries or blackberries for a different but equally delightful result. Each type of berry will bring its own unique flavor and color to the bread. You could also consider adding nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet and tangy profile of the loaf.

If you're looking to make a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add fiber and a nutty taste to the bread. Moreover, using a sugar substitute can help lower the calorie count without sacrificing sweetness, but ensure that it's compatible with baking for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is a lovely addition to any breakfast spread. Pair it with a light yogurt for added protein, or serve it alongside your favorite herbal tea for an elevated afternoon snack. For a decadent touch, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or mascarpone on top; the creamy texture and slight tang will beautifully complement the flavors of the bread.

Consider slicing the tea bread and serving it to guests at gatherings or brunches. It can also be enjoyed as a base for delightful toppings, such as fresh whipped cream or lemon curd, turning it into a simple dessert option. Just make sure to keep what’s leftover properly stored, so it remains moist and flavorful for your next indulgent treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the bread?

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

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! Raspberries or chopped strawberries can be great alternatives.

→ Is the lemon glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a lovely sweetness and extra lemon flavor, but it can be skipped if you prefer a less sweet bread.