Blueberry Bread Recipe
Blueberry Bread Recipe
Blueberry bread is a delightful and moist treat that perfectly blends sweetness and a subtle hint of tartness. This easy-to-make recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you are preparing for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack, blueberry bread meets all occasions. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious loaf that will surely be a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love It
There are numerous reasons to love blueberry bread, and most of them revolve around its comfort and flavor. First and foremost, this bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day—served warm for breakfast, as a midday snack, or even as a delightful dessert. The combination of blueberries and tender bread creates a texture that is soft and pillowy with bursts of juicy fruit in every bite.
Additionally, making blueberry bread serves as a perfect opportunity to bond with family or friends. Imagine gathering in the kitchen, mixing the ingredients together, and sharing laughter as the bread bakes, releasing its tantalizing aroma. This simple act can create lasting memories that your loved ones will cherish for years to come.
Blueprinting your loaf is not only an enjoyable experience but also a rewarding one. The satisfaction of slicing into a warm loaf and savoring that first bite is incomparable. It becomes even better when you know exactly what goes into your bread. By choosing fresh or frozen blueberries, you can ensure that your bread is both wholesome and flavorful. With the added bonus of being able to customize the ingredients—using whole grain flour or almond milk, for example—this recipe can easily cater to various dietary preferences.
Moreover, the health benefits of blueberries can’t be overstated. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, incorporating these tiny berries into your diet through blueberry bread gives you a delicious way to enhance your nutritional intake.
All of these factors contribute to why blueberry bread remains a cherished staple in many households. It’s not just bread; it’s a slice of joy and a gateway to home-cooked warmth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 cup of milk
- ⅓ cup of vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 to 1 ½ cups of fresh or frozen blueberries
The ingredients for blueberry bread are fairly straightforward and can be found in any pantry or local grocery store. You will need two cups of all-purpose flour to create the bread’s structure. The granulated sugar, measured at one cup, not only sweetens the loaf but also contributes to its tender crumb. A half teaspoon of salt brings out the flavors, while two teaspoons of baking powder provide the necessary rise. For moisture, you will use a cup of milk, along with a third cup of vegetable oil, which makes the bread rich and velvety. A large egg binds the ingredients together, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract adds that warm, enticing aroma. Finally, the star of the show: one to one and a half cups of blueberries, contributing their signature flavor and color to the bread.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|———————|———————–|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable Oil | ⅓ cup |
| Large Egg | 1 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Blueberries | 1 to 1 ½ cups |
How to Make Blueberry Bread
Step 1
To begin making your blueberry bread, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven heats, take out a loaf pan and grease it to prepare for your future batter. You can use any type of oil, or you can use a non-stick spray, just to ensure that the bread releases easily when it’s done baking.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients. This includes the two cups of all-purpose flour, one cup of granulated sugar, half a teaspoon of salt, and two teaspoons of baking powder. Mixing these together until well-combined is essential. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout, so every bite of your bread rises perfectly during baking.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients. This will include one cup of milk, one-third cup of vegetable oil, one large egg, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The richness of the oil paired with the milk helps keep the bread moist, while the vanilla adds delicious flavor.
Step 4
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Carefully combine your wet and dry ingredients. Stir until just mixed, making sure to preserve some lumps in the batter; overmixing can lead to a denser bread. Once combined, gently fold in the blueberries until they are evenly distributed throughout your batter. The blueberries should not be crushed; you want these juicy morsels intact and ready to burst with flavor in the oven.
Directions
Once you have prepared the batter, it’s now time to pour it into your greased loaf pan. Spread the batter out evenly, ensuring that it fills the pan without overflowing. Now, place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, gently transfer the bread to a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely before slicing. For an additional touch of sweetness, consider drizzling a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top before serving.
Helpful Notes
When it comes to blueberry bread, a few helpful notes can enhance your baking experience. Firstly, if you desire additional flavors, consider adding lemon zest or a hint of cinnamon to elevate the taste profile. This can bring a more complex flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.
Using fresh blueberries is always recommended, as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, frozen blueberries can also work wonderfully—just ensure you do not thaw them before mixing; this keeps your batter from becoming discolored by juice.
Always remember that every oven is different. If it’s your first time baking this blueberry bread, keep an eye on it as it approaches the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Lastly, for an extra indulgent treat, you could sprinkle some coarse sugar on top of the batter before baking, giving it a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft interior.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Blueberry bread can be stored easily, making it a convenient bake. To keep it fresh, wrap the completely cooled loaf in plastic wrap, or store it in an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for up to three days.
If you want to extend its freshness, blueberry bread freezes exceptionally well. To do this, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating the bread is a breeze too. If you prefer your bread warm, slice it and pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, toaster ovens work well for reheating a few slices at a time.
For those who enjoy a crispy crust, you can place the entire loaf back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
What can I do if I don’t have baking powder?
If you don’t have baking powder, a great substitute is to mix one teaspoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. This combination can replicate the leavening effect.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Definitely! Whole wheat flour can be used, but keep in mind that it may make the bread denser. You can also use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain a softer texture.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with add-ins! Nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch, or you can include other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, along with the blueberries for a mixed berry bread.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Certainly, making blueberry bread vegan is simple. Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water) and use non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk instead.
How can I make my bread sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider increasing the sugar by a quarter cup or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for an enhanced sweet flavor.
Is it necessary to use fresh blueberries?
While fresh berries are recommended for their flavor and texture, frozen blueberries can also be used without any significant changes to the recipe. Just make sure they are not thawed beforehand.
Can this bread be made into muffins?
Absolutely! To make blueberry muffins, simply pour the batter into a muffin tin lined with papers, adjusting the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Conclusion + CTA
Blueberry bread is not just a recipe; it’s a cozy experience that brings warmth to the heart and a smile to the face. With its tender crumb and juicy blueberries, this loaf is an inviting treat for both family and friends. Whether you bake it for a weekend brunch or share it as a sweet gesture to a neighbor, blueberry bread brings people together. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in the wonder that homemade blueberry bread provide. Don’t wait too long—gather your ingredients and start creating your own delightful loaf today!
Blueberry Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder until well-combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Carefully combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally, drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top before serving.
