Moist Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe

There’s something uniquely satisfying about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with the natural sweetness of blueberries. This Moist Lemon Blueberry Loaf is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or even as a light dessert. Bursting with fresh blueberries and infused with vibrant lemon zest and juice, this loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Loaf

This recipe is designed to be both simple and satisfying. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few staples and about an hour of your time. The combination of unsweetened applesauce and minimal oil keeps the loaf moist while reducing the fat content. That makes this a healthier alternative to traditional dessert loaves, without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need for this lemon blueberry loaf:

  • 2 large eggs – These provide structure and richness.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar – A small amount of brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel note.
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce – A healthy alternative to oil or butter, it keeps the loaf moist.
  • 1/3 cup 1% milk – You can substitute with non-dairy milk if desired.
  • 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice – The juice of one large lemon is perfect.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder + 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the loaf rise beautifully.
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest – Adds intense lemon aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the loaf.
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries – Fresh is preferred, but frozen blueberries also work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Whisk the eggs in a medium mixing bowl until slightly frothy. This helps incorporate air, giving your loaf a lighter texture.
  3. Add the brown sugar to the eggs and stir until fully dissolved. The mixture should look slightly glossy.
  4. Mix in the applesauce, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Combine until smooth and uniform.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and add the lemon zest. Stir gently to combine the dry ingredients.
  6. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to mix until just combined—do not overmix.
  7. Fold in the blueberries gently to avoid breaking them and turning the batter purple.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake in the center rack for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Optional Lemon Glaze (Highly Recommended)

If you’d like to add a finishing touch, try this easy glaze:

  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over the cooled loaf. This adds a tangy-sweet finish and enhances the lemon flavor.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This loaf is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. It also freezes well—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

  • Calories: 106
  • Fat: 1.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.4g
  • Carbohydrates: 19.4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5.5g
  • Protein: 3.4g

Note: These values were calculated using MyFitnessPal and may vary based on exact ingredients used. If you’re following a Weight Watchers plan, do not use these numbers directly for SmartPoints—always calculate based on your specific zero-point foods.

Weight Watchers Points Guide

  • Personal Points: 2–3 (varies by individual plan)
  • Freestyle SmartPoints (Blue/Purple): 2
  • SmartPoints (Green): 3
  • PointsPlus: 2

Note: Glaze adds approximately 1 point per serving.

Baking Tips & Tricks

  1. Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries: While fresh blueberries offer the best texture and flavor, frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch. If using frozen, do not thaw before adding them to the batter to prevent bleeding.
  2. Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane for best results and avoid the white pith underneath the skin, which is bitter.
  3. Prevent Blueberries from Sinking: Toss your blueberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter—this helps keep them evenly distributed.

Serving Suggestions

This loaf is perfect served with:

  • A hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea.
  • Fresh berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
  • A light dusting of powdered sugar instead of glaze for a simpler finish.

Variations You Can Try

  • Add Nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts give a satisfying crunch.
  • Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use almond milk, and ensure the sweetener is plant-based.
  • Use Whole Wheat Flour: For a fiber boost, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Add Poppy Seeds: For a twist on the classic lemon loaf, add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds.

Health Benefits

This loaf is a lighter alternative to traditional pound cakes and dessert breads. The applesauce reduces the need for butter or oil, and the blueberries add natural antioxidants and fiber. Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, aiding immune function and digestion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing for brunch, bringing something to a potluck, or just craving a homemade treat, this lemon blueberry loaf delivers. It strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, with flavors that are vibrant and universally loved.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is an easy, foolproof recipe that delivers on taste and texture every single time. Its simplicity makes it ideal for beginner bakers, while the freshness of the ingredients appeals to anyone looking for a flavorful treat that feels light yet satisfying.

Add it to your weekly baking rotation, share it with friends, or freeze a few slices for later—you won’t regret making this delightful loaf part of your go-to recipe collection.