Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
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 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Comfort Classics

I absolutely love making Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread! The way the tart lemon zest complements the sweet, plump blueberries creates a delightful balance of flavors. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially for brunches and gatherings. The aroma that fills the house while it's baking is simply irresistible. I enjoy serving it warm from the oven, often topped with a light glaze or a pat of butter. It's a treat that always brings smiles to faces and is surprisingly easy to whip up.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:25:36.113Z

The first time I baked this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a mouthwatering result. I decided to experiment by adding more lemon zest than usual, and it truly elevated the flavor. The citrusy notes paired with the blueberries create a refreshing balance that feels unique yet comforting.

After several attempts, I found that folding the blueberries in gently helps prevent them from breaking apart too much. This technique preserves the beautiful bursts of fruit in every slice. Plus, serving it warm with a light glaze adds just the right finishing touch to this delightful treat!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon.
Moist and tender texture that makes it irresistible.
An excellent choice for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack.

Baking Technique for Success

To achieve the best results with your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, accurate measuring is crucial. I recommend using a kitchen scale for the flour, especially, as too much can lead to a dense bread. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife if you're measuring by volume. This will ensure the perfect balance and texture in the finished loaf.

Mixing techniques also play a key role in the final product. Overmixing the batter once you add the blueberries can lead to a tough texture, as the gluten will develop too much. Instead, gently fold them in with a spatula until just combined. This keeps the batter light and allows for plump blueberries to remain intact without bursting.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is baked and cooled, you can store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider freezing slices individually. Just pop them in a resealable freezer bag, and they can last for up to three months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

This bread makes an excellent breakfast on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding a light glaze. A simple mix of powdered sugar and lemon juice creates an ideal drizzle that enhances the citrus notes. Alternatively, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for a delightful snack.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful tea bread.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your tea bread.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 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 together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream until just combined.

Fold in Blueberries

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

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Your delicious Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try adding a lemon glaze on top once the bread has cooled. Combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredient Spotlight: Blueberries

The choice of blueberries can greatly influence the flavor of your tea bread. Fresh, in-season blueberries tend to be sweeter and juicier, while frozen blueberries can be used as a convenient option. If using frozen, do not thaw them beforehand; add them directly to the batter to prevent excess moisture that might affect the bread's texture.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of berries. Raspberries or blackberries can be substituted for blueberries, though they will impart a different flavor profile. If experimenting with frozen varieties, just remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as those may release more liquid while baking.

Enhancing Flavor with Variations

While the classic blueberry lemon combination is wonderful, feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts or spices. Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch and additional depth of flavor. Simply fold in about 1/2 cup of your choice when incorporating the blueberries for a satisfying texture that complements the bread.

For a hint of warmth, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the dry ingredients. These spices will infuse a cozy aroma and can enhance the overall taste of your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, making it suitable for various occasions and pairings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but it's best to fold them in while they're still slightly frozen to prevent the batter from turning purple.

→ Can I replace the sour cream?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if desired. It will provide a similar consistency and flavor.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for some crunch. Just fold them in with the blueberries.