Ingredients
For the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)
For the Lemon Syrup:
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup icing sugar
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk (as needed to adjust consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Loaf Pan and Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8.5×4.5×2.5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour. This prevents the loaf from sticking and ensures an easy release.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps aerate the ingredients, leading to a lighter texture in the final bake. Once combined, set the bowl aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth. The sugar dissolves in the wet mixture, ensuring even sweetness throughout the loaf.
Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking gently until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the loaf dense rather than light and fluffy.
Step 5: Preparing the Blueberries
Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This simple trick prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter using a spatula to avoid crushing them.
Step 6: Baking the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. Since oven temperatures can vary, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready. If not, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.
Step 7: Making the Lemon Syrup
While the loaf bakes, prepare the lemon syrup. In a small saucepan, heat the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves. This syrup enhances the lemon flavor and keeps the loaf moist.
Step 8: Cooling and Adding Lemon Syrup
Once the loaf is done baking, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. Use a skewer or toothpick to poke small holes all over the loaf, then slowly pour the lemon syrup over it, allowing it to soak in. Let the loaf cool completely before adding the glaze.
Step 9: Preparing the Lemon Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. If the glaze is too thick, add a small amount of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 10: Glazing and Serving
Once the loaf has fully cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and yogurt to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter.
- Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it with a knife instead of scooping directly, which can lead to excess flour and a dense loaf.
- Checking for Doneness: If the toothpick test is inconclusive, lightly press the top of the loaf. If it springs back, it is fully baked.
- Preventing Overbaking: If the loaf starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour