Name: One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 2 lemons zest; 1 cup sugar (200 g); 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil or vegetable oil (118 g); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 cup sour cream or whole milk yogurt (120 g); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (195 g); 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (222 g); turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

Introduction to One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

There's something undeniably comforting about homemade bread, and one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is a delightful twist that perfectly blends sweet and tart flavors. This quick bread is not only delicious but remarkably simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for young professionals balancing busy schedules.

Why Quick Bread is Perfect for Young Professionals

As a young professional, time is often a luxury we can't afford. Quick breads like this lemon-blueberry version offer the convenience of easy preparation with minimal dishes to clean—just one bowl! You can enjoy a satisfying homemade treat on a hectic morning or serve it as a snack during the day.

Moreover, this recipe allows you to experiment with seasonal ingredients. Blueberries are bursting with flavor during summer months, while zesty lemons add brightness, making each bite refreshing and uplifting. Did you know that incorporating fruits into your diet can improve overall health and well-being? According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults eat enough fruits and vegetables, so this quick bread can be a subtle push towards healthier snacking.

So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that promises to elevate your baking game without eating up your precious time! If you're curious about other simple bread recipes, check out this guide.

Ingredients for One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

List of Necessary Ingredients

Creating your delightful one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is easier than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

Softened butter for the pan
Zest from 2 lemons
1 cup (200 g) sugar
½ cup (118 g) extra-virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ cup (120 g) sour cream or whole milk yogurt
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 ½ cups (195 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (222 g) fresh or frozen blueberries
Turbinado sugar for sprinkling

Notes on Ingredient Quality

When making your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread, the quality of ingredients truly matters! Opt for fresh lemons and high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor profile. Fresh or frozen blueberries are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to use fruit that’s in good condition; this will give your bread a burst of juiciness and color. For a richer taste, choose full-fat sour cream or yogurt—they can elevate your baked treat to another level. Each ingredient contributes to a deliciously moist and zesty bread that you won’t be able to resist!

For more tips on choosing quality ingredients, consider checking out resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Baking a delicious one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. With just a few easy steps, you can create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Let’s dive into how to bring this delightful bread to life!

Prepping Your Baking Gear

Before you start mixing ingredients, it's essential to prep your baking gear. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. While it's warming up, grab an 8 ½ x 4 ½-inch loaf pan and generously grease it with softened butter. For added convenience, line the pan with parchment paper. Allow a bit of the paper to hang over the sides; this will act like a cradle, making it a breeze to lift your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread out once it’s baked.

Incorporating Lemon Zest for Flavor

The zest of lemons is your secret weapon for infusing the bread with vibrant flavors! In a large mixing bowl, combine the zest from two lemons with 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar. Gently rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until it’s fragrant. This step not only maximizes the lemon flavor but also ensures that the oils from the zest meld beautifully with the sugar, offering an aromatic base for your bread.

Mixing in Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. To your lemon-sugar mixture, whisk in ½ cup (118 g) of extra-virgin olive oil (or vegetable oil) along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and ½ cup (120 g) of sour cream or whole milk yogurt. This combination brings moisture and richness to your quick bread.

Combining Dry Ingredients Effectively

Now let's tackle the dry ingredients. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, incorporating them one at a time. It’s crucial to whisk vigorously after adding each, ensuring even distribution throughout the mix. Finally, gently fold in 1 ½ cups (195 g) of all-purpose flour, stopping when you still see a few streaks of flour—this is a trick to keep your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread fluffy.

Folding in Blueberries Carefully

Here’s where the magic happens! Carefully fold in 1 ½ cups (222 g) of blueberries (fresh or frozen) into your batter, taking care not to smash the delicate berries. This will help keep their shape, resulting in delightful bursts of blueberry flavor with every slice.

Baking to Perfection

Your batter is now ready for the pan! Scrape it into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top as you go. If you have some leftover blueberries, sprinkle them over the top along with a light dusting of turbinado sugar for a lovely crunch. Bake the bread for about 60 to 70 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. You'll know it's done when a skewer inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—just what you want!

Once baked, let your quick bread cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing into this delightful loaf will be your favorite part! Enjoy your masterpiece—you deserve it!

Variations on One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Using different fruits

While the classic one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is undeniably delicious, experimenting with other fruits can lead to delightful variations! Consider swapping blueberries for fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even chopped peaches. Each fruit adds its own unique flavor and can change the texture of the bread. For a tropical twist, try using pineapple or mango instead! Just remember, if you choose fruits with higher water content, reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly to prevent a soggy loaf.

Exploring alternative zest flavors

Don’t limit your zesting to just lemons! You can brighten the flavor of your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread by using lime or orange zest. Each brings a refreshing twist that complements berries beautifully. For a more complex flavor, try infusing the batter with ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic touch. These small changes can turn your quick bread into something extraordinary, making each batch a new adventure in flavor.

For more inspiration on fruit pairings, check out this guide on seasonal fruits from the USDA.

Cooking Tips and Notes for One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread, skip measuring directly from the mixing bowl for your dry ingredients. Overpacking flour is a common pitfall! Instead, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Also, be mindful of the blueberries; if they’re frozen, don’t thaw them beforehand—they can make the batter soggy.

Best Practices for Ingredient Handling

Use room-temperature eggs and dairy for a smoother batter; they blend better. Remember, zesting your lemons enhances flavor—like adding a burst of sunshine! For a delightful crust, a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top before baking creates a satisfying crunch. Finally, trust the toothpick test. A few moist crumbs are ideal for perfect bread, not a clean pull!

For further tips on ingredient handling, check out America’s Test Kitchen.

Serving Suggestions for One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Pairing Ideas for a Well-Rounded Meal

To elevate your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread into a delightful meal, consider serving it alongside protein-rich foods. Turkey bacon or chicken ham adds a savory touch that beautifully complements the sweet and tart flavors of the bread. A mixed green salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette can enhance the lemony notes, making your meal refreshing and well-balanced. You might even want to prepare a light smoothie—perhaps a banana and spinach concoction—to make breakfast or brunch even more nourishing.

Creative Serving Styles

When it comes to presentation, showcase your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread with flair. Slice the bread and serve it on a wooden board, garnished with fresh blueberries and lemon slices for a pop of color. Pair it with flavored cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. For a more indulgent twist, drizzle some honey or agave on top right before serving. These simple yet creative serving styles can turn your quick bread into a centerpiece that will impress your friends and family!

For more delightful serving ideas, visit Epicurious and discover endless meal inspiration.

Time Breakdown for One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Preparation Time

Getting ready for your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is quick and simple, taking about 15 minutes. You’ll gather your ingredients and mix everything in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

Baking Time

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to bake! This delicious quick bread will need about 60 to 70 minutes in the oven. The sweet aroma of lemon and blueberries wafting through your kitchen will be well worth the wait.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weekend baking session, this recipe allows you to spend more time enjoying your creation and less time in the kitchen. So grab your apron and let’s start baking!

For tips on choosing the best blueberries, check out this resource on How to Choose Fresh Berries. Don't forget to enjoy with a cup of your favorite tea!

Nutritional Facts for One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Calories per slice

Each slice of one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread contains approximately 220 calories, making it a delightful treat without overindulgence. This is a perfect balance for a midday snack or a lovely addition to your breakfast routine.

Sugars and fats content

With about 10 grams of sugar and 9 grams of fat per slice, this bread strikes a great balance. The sugars come mainly from natural sources like blueberries and added sugar, while the fats are primarily from olive oil, contributing to the moist texture. For a detailed breakdown of nutritional values, consider visiting USDA FoodData for a more comprehensive look at your ingredients!

FAQs about One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! This one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread recipe is versatile. If you don't have sour cream, you can use plain yogurt or even buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, plant-based yogurt works wonders. Not a fan of blueberries? Swap them out for raspberries or chopped strawberries.

How should I store leftover quick bread?

To keep your one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread fresh, wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid climate, you might want to refrigerate it to prevent spoiling.

What is the best way to freeze quick bread?

Freezing is a fantastic option if you have extras! Once the bread is fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

For more tips on bread storage, check out resources from King Arthur Baking.

Conclusion on One-Bowl Lemon-Blueberry Quick Bread

Making your own one-bowl lemon-blueberry quick bread is a simple and rewarding endeavor. Not only does it enhance your baking skills, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious treat without the preservatives found in store-bought options. Embrace this homemade delight for a fun and flavorful experience!

Recap of the Benefits of Homemade Quick Bread

Baking quick bread at home offers several perks:

Fresh Ingredients: You control what goes into your bread.
Flavor and Aroma: Freshly baked bread fills your home with inviting scents.
Customization: Adjust sugars, add nuts, or experiment with fruit based on your taste.

If you’re eager to delve deeper into the world of baking, check out America’s Test Kitchen for more delicious recipes and tips!