Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread

Name: Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgences

When I first made Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread, I knew immediately I had created something special. The zesty lemon and sweet blueberries come together in a rustic style that adds both texture and taste to my breakfasts and brunches. Each bite bursts with freshness, balancing tanginess and sweetness perfectly. Over time, I have refined this recipe to ensure the flavors shine without overwhelming. It's become a family favorite, especially during warmer months when blueberries are at their peak. I can't wait for you to try this delightful treat!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:29:36.501Z

As I developed this Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread recipe, I experimented with various ratios of lemon juice and zest to ensure the citrus flavor really popped while still complementing the natural sweetness of the blueberries. One trick I learned is using fresh blueberries rather than frozen ones, as they provide a juicier burst and better texture. Each loaf turns out wonderfully golden, with a slightly crispy crust that adds to the rustic charm.

I've baked this bread for family gatherings and weekend brunches and am always met with rave reviews. It's a perfect canvas for a light spread of butter or a drizzle of honey. If you're looking to impress your guests, this charming loaf will definitely do the trick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The bright, zesty flavor of lemon enhances the sweetness of blueberries.
A rustic texture that offers a satisfying bite.
Versatile for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack.

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and granulated sugar is essential for achieving the right structure and sweetness in Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread. The flour provides the necessary gluten for the bread to rise, while the sugar enhances the flavor and contributes to a soft crumb. If you want a slightly denser texture, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just be mindful that it may also absorb more liquid, so adjust the milk slightly if needed.

Blueberries are the star of this recipe, not only for their sweetness but also for their moisture content, which contributes to the bread’s tenderness. Fresh blueberries are ideal due to their juicy burst of flavor, but if you have frozen blueberries, make sure to fold them in straight from the freezer to prevent them from tinting the batter blue. Using frozen can save prep time, but they may slightly alter the bread's final texture.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing the ingredients, it’s important to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry components. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bread. Stir gently until just combined, and a few lumps are okay! This method maintains the rustic charm of the bread, ensuring each slice has a delightful texture. You'll know you’re ready to bake when the mixture appears slightly lumpy without any dry flour remaining.

For even baking, ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the loaf in. If your oven tends to run hot, you may want to bake it at a lower temperature or check for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out clean, but be aware that the blueberries may create some sticky residue; if you notice dough on the toothpick, test another spot to ensure it is fully baked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to handle the blueberries gently to avoid breaking them before baking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread:

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Cream butter and wet ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened butter. Add milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.

Combine mixtures

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

Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cool, slice and serve fresh.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter. This will not only enhance the aesthetic but also provide a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful breakfast, serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter. It’s also fantastic toasted, where the crispy edges contrast deliciously with the soft interior. Consider topping each slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing touch that complements the flavors beautifully.

For a brunch gathering, this bread can be the star of a homemade spread featuring fresh fruits, jams, and cheeses. Pair it with a light berry compote or a citrus salad to enhance the flavors. The vibrant colors and flavors of the bread make it a beautiful centerpiece, inviting guests to savor every bite.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Lemon Blueberry Rustic Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. Wrap the completely cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored this way for up to three months, making it a great option for a make-ahead treat.

When ready to enjoy the frozen bread, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. To refresh the bread and bring back its soft texture, slice and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This gentle reheating will make it taste freshly baked again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh?

Yes, but fresh blueberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor.

→ How should I store the bread?

Keep 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 bread gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to substitute the regular flour.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.