Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf: A Refreshing Citrus Delight
Indulge in the harmonious blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries with this Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf. It’s a simple yet delectable treat that combines fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to brighten your day.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50-60 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 320 kcal per serving
ingredients
For the loaf:
1½ cups (187g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)
For the lemon syrup:
⅓ cup (80ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
For the lemon glaze:
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth and well incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender loaf.
Prepare the Blueberries: In a small bowl, toss the fresh blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to coat them lightly. This helps prevent them from sinking during baking.
Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold the floured blueberries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing.
Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
Prepare the Lemon Syrup: While the loaf is baking, combine the lemon juice and granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and set aside.
Cool and Glaze: Once the loaf is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. While the loaf is still warm, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the top. Brush the lemon syrup evenly over the loaf, allowing it to soak in.
Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach a pourable consistency.
Glaze the Loaf: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled loaf, letting it drip down the sides. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. However, be aware that they may release more moisture into the batter, potentially affecting the loaf’s texture. To minimize this, toss the frozen blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with plain regular yogurt. While Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture, regular yogurt will still work well in this recipe.
How should I store the Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf?
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze it, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it should stay good for about three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and complement the flavors of the loaf. Fold them in along with the blueberries.
What can I do if the lemon glaze is too thick?
If the glaze is too thick, gradually add more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a pourable consistency.
Tools You'll Need
8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Small saucepan
Skewer or toothpick
Tips
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your yogurt and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother batter and a more consistent crumb in the finished loaf.
Coat the Blueberries: Tossing the blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring an even distribution throughout the loaf.
Avoid Overmixing: To ensure a light and tender loaf, mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the loaf to cool completely before applying the lemon glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the loaf and ensures a beautiful, glossy finish.
Use a Standard Loaf Pan Size: Using the correct pan size ensures even baking. A standard 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan is recommended for this recipe.
Allergy Information
This Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf contains dairy (Greek yogurt), eggs, and gluten (all-purpose flour). For those with dairy allergies, consider using a plant-based yogurt alternative. Egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or chia seeds can replace eggs. To make the loaf gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Always ensure that all ingredients are safe for your specific dietary needs.
Conclusion
Baking this Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Loaf is more than just preparing a treat; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the burst of fresh flavors, makes it a delightful addition to any occasion. We warmly invite you to try this recipe, savor each moist and flavorful slice, and share your baking experiences with friends and family. May this loaf bring as much happiness to your home as it has to ours. Happy baking!
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