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: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Everyday Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and there is something incredibly satisfying about whipping up this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake. The fresh burst of blueberries mixed with the zesty lemon creates a symphony of flavors that just brightens my day. I enjoy treating my family to this delightful loaf, especially during weekends when we can savor it together. Plus, the aroma of it baking in the oven is enough to make anyone's mouth water. It's a simple yet delightful treat that never fails to impress.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:57:34.911Z

Baking this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake has been a delightful experience for me. The combination of tart lemons and sweet blueberries creates a vibrant flavor profile that I just can’t get enough of. I often share this recipe with friends, as it’s a fantastic way to showcase the bright flavors of summer in a delicious dessert. It’s also incredibly easy to make, which means I can enjoy quality time with my loved ones while it bakes.

One of my favorite tips when preparing this cake is to toss the blueberries in a bit of flour before mixing them into the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom, ensuring every slice is bursting with fruity goodness. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded how such simple ingredients can create something so delightful and beloved in our home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of blueberries
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a coffee break

      

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf Cake

When mixing the dry ingredients, make sure to whisk them thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and soda. This will help the loaf rise uniformly, creating a beautifully fluffy texture. If you see clumps of dry ingredients, use a sieve to break them up. It's these small details that contribute to a perfect crumb.

Be mindful of the mixing process when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than the light and airy structure we want. Mix just until the flour is incorporated—there might be a few lumps left, which is perfectly fine. This technique is key to achieving that tender crumb you’re aiming for.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once completely cooled, wrap your Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Slice the loaf before freezing; this way, you can take out only what you need, keeping the rest frozen for those spontaneous cravings.

This loaf can be served as a delightful breakfast option or paired with afternoon tea. For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the top—just mix powdered sugar with a bit of lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra zing that complements the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup fresh blueberries

Make sure to have everything ready for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your perfect Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to overmix.

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle simple lemon glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and flavor.

Ingredient Role Insights

Each component in this loaf cake serves a specific purpose that contributes to its overall flavor and texture. For instance, the buttermilk not only adds moisture but also reacts with the baking soda, helping the cake rise beautifully. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and vinegar or lemon juice; just let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles slightly.

Using fresh blueberries yields the best results in terms of flavor and color. However, if you only have frozen blueberries on hand, they can work too. Just make sure to fold them in when still frozen to prevent the cake batter from turning purple. Drying them with a paper towel first can also help absorb excess moisture, helping maintain the cake’s structure.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

While the classic lemon blueberry combination is hard to beat, consider experimenting with other berries too. Raspberries or blackberries can provide a nice twist to the flavor profile while maintaining that delightful tartness. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds can introduce an appealing crunch and additional texture.

For a more intense lemon flavor, incorporating lemon extract into the batter or adding finely grated lemon zest to the glaze can elevate the fruit's freshness. You might also enjoy a touch of almond extract for a nutty backdrop that pairs wonderfully with the blueberries. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to add them directly from the freezer and do not thaw.

→ How should I store the loaf cake?

Store the loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but ensure it includes xanthan gum.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.