What you’ll need

Gather these items to create your Blueberry Orange Bread:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)
• 1 tbsp flour (for tossing blueberries)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
• 1–2 tbsp fresh orange juice (for glaze, optional)

Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if that’s what you have on hand. Both add a delightful creaminess to the bread.

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add in the egg and blend until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in the yogurt (or sour cream), orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
7. Toss your blueberries with the tablespoon of flour to coat them (this helps to prevent sinking) and gently fold them into the batter.
8. Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan and smooth out the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for a bit. If you’re making the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf before slicing.

Best ways to enjoy it

There are so many delightful ways to serve your Blueberry Orange Bread! It’s wonderful on its own, but you can jazz it up by serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk for a perfect afternoon snack. Adding some toasted nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Blueberry Orange Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Helpful cooking tips

To give your Blueberry Orange Bread that professional touch, consider these tips:

• Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
• Be gentle when folding in the blueberries to avoid breaking them down, which can color the batter.
• For an extra burst of orange flavor, consider adding a little orange extract to the wet ingredients.

Creative twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own! You can experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blackberries if blueberries aren’t available. For a unique flavor, try adding some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warming depth. If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, a cream cheese filling could make for a delicious surprise!

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare Blueberry Orange Bread?

The active prep time is about 15-20 minutes, followed by a baking time of 50-60 minutes. You’re only a little more than an hour away from delicious banana bread bliss!

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! Just make sure not to thaw them before mixing; this will help them keep their shape in the batter.

How do I adjust this recipe for gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Since different brands vary, you may need to adjust moisture slightly, so keep an eye on the batter consistency.

Feel free to share your experience with this delightful recipe or ask any more questions! Happy baking!

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