Blueberry Bread Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of fresh blueberry bread baking in the oven. I first made this recipe on a lazy Sunday morning when I had a basket of ripe blueberries that were just a day away from going bad. Rather than letting them go to waste, I whipped together a quick bread that filled the house with the most irresistible aroma—sweet, buttery, and bursting with juicy berries.

Whether you need a cozy breakfast, a mid-morning treat with coffee, or an easy homemade gift, this blueberry bread checks every box. It’s moist, flavorful, and requires only pantry staples, making it the perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. Keep reading and you’ll find out why it’s a favorite in so many households.

Why I Love This Recipe

This blueberry bread isn’t just another quick bread—it’s a slice of homey comfort you can serve warm with butter or cool with a drizzle of glaze. What makes it so special? For starters, the crumb is perfectly tender, thanks to a mix of yogurt and oil, which keeps the bread moist for days. Every bite is packed with sweet, plump blueberries that burst as they bake, creating little pockets of fruity flavor throughout.

But beyond the taste and texture, I love this recipe because it’s reliable. You don’t need a stand mixer, and there’s no complicated technique involved. It’s a one-bowl wonder that works every single time. And you can make it your own—add lemon zest for brightness, swap in different berries, or top it with a streusel for an extra indulgent treat.

If you’re someone who wants a dependable, delicious recipe that’s impressive yet effortless, this blueberry bread is your new best friend.

Ingredients for Blueberry Bread Recipe

Before you begin, take a moment to gather your ingredients. That way, you won’t be hunting through the pantry mid-recipe—and trust me, you’ll want everything within arm’s reach once you start.

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—each one plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour – This gives the bread its structure. Make sure to spoon and level your flour so you don’t overpack the cup.
• Baking powder – Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and a light crust to the outside.
• Eggs – Provide richness and help bind everything together.
• Whole milk yogurt or sour cream – This adds moisture and a slight tang. It’s the secret to keeping the bread soft for days.
• Vegetable oil – Makes the bread tender without being greasy.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.
• Fresh or frozen blueberries – The star of the show! If using frozen, don’t thaw them—just toss them in with a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.

Optional Add-ins:

• Lemon zest – Brightens the flavor and pairs beautifully with blueberries.
• Almond extract – For a subtle nutty twist.

Take a few minutes to prep your ingredients before diving into the baking process. It will make everything go more smoothly and give you better results.

How Much Time Will You Need

You don’t need all day to make something that tastes like it came from a bakery. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: About 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes

So from start to finish, you’re looking at just over an hour and a half. That makes it perfect for weekend baking or for prepping ahead on a Friday night to enjoy all weekend long.

How to Make This Blueberry Bread Recipe

Let’s walk through the process step by step. It’s straightforward and beginner-friendly, so don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned baker.

Step – 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Set aside.

If you’re using frozen blueberries, toss them in a tablespoon of flour to keep them from sinking to the bottom of the bread.

Step – 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step – 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together:

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk yogurt (or sour cream)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth and creamy. If using lemon zest or almond extract, add it here.

Step – 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Don’t overmix—stop when there are still a few streaks of flour left.

Step – 5: Add the Blueberries

Fold in 1 cup of blueberries (fresh or frozen and floured). Be gentle so you don’t crush the berries, especially if using fresh ones.

Step – 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, sprinkle a few extra blueberries on top for a bakery-style look.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Check around 45 minutes—if the top is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.

Step – 7: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps the texture set and prevents crumbling.

Substitutions

Sometimes you don’t have everything on hand, and that’s okay. Here are some smart swaps you can make without sacrificing flavor or texture.

• Greek yogurt in place of sour cream – Adds protein and keeps it just as moist.
• Coconut oil instead of vegetable oil – For a slightly tropical flavor twist.
• White whole wheat flour – Works great if you want to add a bit more fiber while keeping the texture light.
• Frozen blueberries – These are a great alternative to fresh and are available year-round. Just be sure not to thaw them before using.
• Dairy-free yogurt – Use almond or coconut yogurt to make the recipe dairy-free.

These substitutions work well and can even give your bread a fun, unique flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Bread

Pairing your blueberry bread with the right side can turn a simple slice into a memorable snack or brunch experience. Here are three ideas:

• Vanilla Greek Yogurt with Honey – The creaminess complements the bread and adds a protein boost.
• Scrambled Eggs with Herbs – For a savory contrast, especially if you’re enjoying the bread as part of a brunch spread.
• Fresh Fruit Salad – Keeps things light and refreshing, perfect for summer mornings.

These sides enhance the flavors of the bread and create a balanced meal or snack you’ll want to repeat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can turn an ordinary dish into something special, and while blueberry bread doesn’t require much to look stunning, a few simple touches can elevate it to an impressive treat.

• Garnish with Powdered Sugar: After the bread has cooled, dust it with a light coating of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant look. This adds a touch of sweetness and makes it feel a little more indulgent.
• Serve with Fresh Blueberries: Fresh, plump blueberries scattered on top or on the side add a vibrant pop of color and reinforce the flavors of the bread.
• Drizzle with Lemon Glaze: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a light lemon glaze over the top of the bread. It’s a simple mix of powdered sugar and lemon juice, and it pairs beautifully with the blueberries.
• Sliced and Stacked: When serving, slice the bread into thick slices and arrange them on a serving platter. You can even stack the slices for a rustic, charming presentation.

For a more formal occasion or if you’re planning to give this as a gift, wrap the bread in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon or twine. It’s a delightful homemade touch that’s sure to impress.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

While this blueberry bread is already fantastic, there are always ways to make it even more amazing. Here are a few pro tips to take it to the next level:

• Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, make sure to fold them gently. Overmixing the batter can result in a dense, heavy bread, so stop mixing as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is a small but important step. Using eggs and yogurt that are at room temperature will ensure that the batter mixes more evenly and results in a more consistent crumb.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can deepen the flavor profile of the bread, giving it a warm, cozy aroma. It’s particularly lovely if you enjoy spiced baked goods.
• Swirl in a Streusel Topping: If you’re looking for a little more crunch, top your bread with a streusel before baking. Simply combine sugar, butter, and flour in a bowl, and sprinkle over the batter.
• Add a Handful of Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add texture and an extra layer of flavor. Just fold them into the batter with the blueberries.

These small tweaks can make a huge difference in the overall experience, so feel free to experiment and find the version of blueberry bread that’s perfect for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. Here’s what you should be mindful of:

• Overmixing the Batter: As mentioned earlier, overmixing leads to a dense, dry loaf. Mix until the ingredients are just combined—lumps are perfectly fine.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Baking time can vary based on your oven and the size of your loaf pan. Keep an eye on it, and start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
• Not Preparing the Pan Properly: If you don’t grease and line your pan, the bread may stick, making it difficult to remove once baked. Always line the pan with parchment paper for an easy release.
• Using Cold Blueberries: If you’re using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them! Frozen berries work better because they retain their shape and don’t release too much moisture into the batter. Tossing them in a little flour helps prevent them from sinking.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: I know it’s tempting, but don’t slice into your bread as soon as it comes out of the oven. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes in the pan and another 10 minutes on a wire rack to set the texture and prevent crumbling.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll end up with a perfectly baked loaf of blueberry bread every time.

How to Store It

Blueberry bread stores well, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it over a few days. Here’s how to store it for the best results:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within 3 days, you can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. Be sure to wrap the loaf or cover it well to keep it from drying out.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to a week. You may want to reheat it before serving to restore its softness.
• Freezing: If you want to store the bread for even longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours, or heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes.

Whether you’re storing it at room temperature, in the fridge, or freezing for later, blueberry bread stays moist and delicious for several days.

FAQ

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe! Just be sure not to thaw them before folding them into the batter, and toss them in a little flour to help prevent them from sinking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The bread will still be delicious.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves. Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl and a second loaf pan, and be sure to adjust the baking time if needed. Larger loaves may take a little longer to bake through.

Can I add nuts to the bread?
Yes, nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds make a great addition to blueberry bread. Fold in about ½ cup of chopped nuts along with the blueberries.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?
There are a few reasons this might happen: the oven temperature might have been too low, the batter could have been overmixed, or the bread may have been underbaked. Make sure to preheat your oven properly and avoid overmixing the batter to ensure the bread rises evenly.

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