Blueberry Lemon Loaf Cake

Blueberry Lemon Loaf Cake

Introduction

A Blueberry Lemon Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that combines the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet juiciness of blueberries. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea parties to casual family gatherings. Its moist texture, vibrant flavor, and aromatic glaze make it a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into a detailed recipe that will guide you through crafting this luscious loaf.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• Flour: 2 cups (all-purpose)
• Baking Powder: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Sugar: 1 cup
• Butter: ½ cup (unsalted, softened)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Lemons: Zest of 2 lemons
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
• Milk: ½ cup
• Blueberries: 1 cup (fresh or frozen, tossed in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking)

For the Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
• Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp
• Milk: 1 tbsp (optional, for thinning)

Instructions

Preparing the Cake:

1. Preheat & Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter & Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time.
   • Mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
5. Combine & Fold:
   • Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
   • Gently fold in the floured blueberries.
6. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Glaze:

1. Whisk Together:
   • In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Add milk if needed for desired consistency.
2. Drizzle:
   • Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.

History

Blueberries and lemons have long been paired in culinary traditions due to their complementary flavors. The idea of fruit-infused loaf cakes dates back to the 19th century, inspired by pound cakes. This variation is particularly loved in North America, where blueberries are native and widely celebrated in desserts.

Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants:
   • Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that promote heart health and combat oxidative stress.
2. Boosts Immunity:
   • Lemons provide vitamin C, supporting a strong immune system.
3. Mood Enhancer:
   • The citrusy aroma of lemons can uplift your mood.
4. Energy Source:
   • The sugar and carbohydrates in this loaf provide a quick energy boost.
5. Rich in Antioxidants
6. Blueberries are a superfood packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which combat free radicals, reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.
7. Immune System Boost
8. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, aiding in preventing colds and flu.
9. Supports Heart Health
10. Blueberries promote good cholesterol levels, improve blood circulation, and support heart health. The loaf also provides a moderate amount of healthy fats from butter.
11. Mood Lifting
12. The zesty, citrusy aroma of lemon has mood-enhancing properties, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
13. Source of Fiber
14. Blueberries and the flour in the cake provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full for longer.
15. Energy Boost
16. The carbohydrates from sugar and flour provide a quick energy boost, making it a great snack for busy days.
17. Natural Sweetness
18. The combination of fruit and glaze offers natural sweetness, satisfying sweet cravings without overly processed sugars.
19. Versatility
20. The loaf is versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or as a midday treat, making it a flexible addition to any diet.
21. Skin Glow
22. The vitamin C and antioxidants in lemons and blueberries contribute to healthy, glowing skin by promoting collagen production.
23. Crowd-Pleaser
24. Beyond its nutritional benefits, the joy of sharing a homemade treat with friends and family adds to emotional well-being, strengthening bonds and spreading happiness.

This loaf isn’t just a dessert—it’s a slice of goodness for both your body and spirit!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount per Slice	Daily Value (%)*

Calories

260 kcal

13%

Protein

4 g

8%

Total Fat

10 g

15%

– Saturated Fat

6 g

30%

Cholesterol

55 mg

18%

Sodium

130 mg

5%

Total Carbohydrates

38 g

13%

– Dietary Fiber

2 g

8%

– Sugars

22 g

–

Vitamin C

8 mg

10%

Calcium

35 mg

3%

Iron

1 mg

5%

Key Highlights

• Calories: Moderate, making it a balanced treat.
• Fats: The butter contributes to richness but can be reduced for lighter options.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from sugar and flour, offering energy.
• Fiber: Blueberries provide a decent amount of dietary fiber.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Lemon zest adds a touch of vitamin C, while milk contributes calcium.

Note:

The values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Adjustments like swapping butter for a healthier fat or reducing sugar can modify the nutritional profile to suit your dietary needs.

Lovers of Blueberry Lemon Loaf

This loaf is cherished by all age groups. Kids adore the juicy blueberries, while adults appreciate its sophisticated balance of tartness and sweetness. Perfect for coffee mornings, potlucks, or even as a post-dinner treat!

Conclusion

The Blueberry Lemon Loaf Cake is a timeless dessert that captivates the senses with its bright flavors and tender crumb. Whether shared with loved ones or savored alone, it’s a cake that speaks of comfort and joy.

Make this recipe to brighten your day or impress your guests, and let the harmony of lemon and blueberry enchant your taste buds!