Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread is the perfect combination of soft, buttery, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just indulging in something delicious, this loaf bread will surely satisfy your cravings. With its moist texture, bright lemon zest, and juicy blueberries, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite. And let’s not forget the irresistible streusel topping that adds a crunchy contrast to the soft bread—making each slice even more delightful.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to create this scrumptious loaf, explore variations, and answer some frequently asked questions. Plus, we’ll include a helpful glaze option for that extra finishing touch.
What is Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread?
Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread is a simple, easy-to-make loaf that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon. The addition of the sweet and crumbly streusel topping makes it irresistible. This recipe features a moist and buttery loaf that’s perfect for any time of day—whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving it as a dessert after dinner. The optional glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness and tang, making it even more special.
Origin of Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread
While the exact origin of this specific recipe is unclear, blueberry loaf bread has been a popular dessert or snack in various cultures. The combination of blueberries and lemon has long been loved for its refreshing, fruity balance. The streusel topping, a classic in baking, originated in Germany, where it was used to add a crunchy, sweet layer on top of cakes and breads. Over time, the combination of these elements—blueberries, lemon, and streusel—became a beloved option for anyone who enjoys fruity, moist, and comforting baked goods.
Ingredients for Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread (Makes 1 Loaf)
For the Loaf:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)
- 1 tbsp flour (to toss blueberries and prevent sinking)
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Before you begin mixing your ingredients, it’s essential to prepare your baking tools:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
The streusel topping is what makes this bread extra special, adding a crunchy contrast to the soft loaf. Here’s how to make it:
- In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon.
- Add 3 tbsp cold unsalted butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Set it aside.
3. Prepare the Loaf Batter
Now it’s time to prepare the moist, flavorful loaf batter:
- Start by tossing your blueberries with 1 tbsp flour. This step ensures that the blueberries won’t sink to the bottom of the loaf as it bakes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until everything is smooth and combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the loaf dense.
- Carefully fold the coated blueberries into the batter. The mixture will be thick, but don’t worry, it’s normal!
4. Assemble the Loaf and Bake
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to assemble the loaf:
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You may want to cover the loaf loosely with foil in the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent the topping from getting too dark.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Optional Lemon Glaze
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the loaf with a sweet, tangy glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1–2 tsp lemon juice until smooth.
- Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Variations of Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread
While the basic recipe is already fantastic, here are a few variations to make it even more exciting:
- Add nuts: For an added crunch, try mixing in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
- Lemon zest: Add 2 tsp lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor. If you love lemon, you can even add some lemon extract to the batter.
- Berry mix: Swap out the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or even a combination of mixed berries.
- Vegan option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free yogurt and butter to make it vegan-friendly.
FAQs About Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread
Q1: Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter. Toss them with flour to help prevent them from sinking.
Q2: Can I make this recipe in a mini loaf pan?
Yes, you can divide the batter into mini loaf pans. Baking times will be shorter, so keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness at around 30 minutes.
Q3: Can I freeze Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.
Q4: How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your loaf is done.
Conclusion
Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread is a delicious, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its perfect balance of flavors—tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and a crunchy streusel topping—it’s bound to be a crowd favorite. Plus, with the optional glaze, you can elevate the flavors even further. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast, brunch, or just as a sweet snack, this loaf will surely satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try today and enjoy every soft, tangy, and buttery bite!
This recipe provides a comprehensive guide to making Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf Bread, from ingredients to detailed instructions, variations, and FAQs. Enjoy!
