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Sweet and Tangy Blueberry Banana Bread with Lemon Zest - A Bright, Cozy Loaf

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 large ripe bananas, well mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (or 1/2 cup neutral oil)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (reduce to 2/3 cup for a less sweet loaf)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon, packed)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen; do not thaw if frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for tossing blueberries)
  • Optional: 2–3 tablespoons coarse sugar for topping

Instructions

  • Prep the pan and oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with a parchment sling for easy removal.
  • Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
  • Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • Bring it together: Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula just until you no longer see dry streaks. Do not overmix.
  • Prepare the blueberries: Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to help prevent sinking. Fold them gently into the batter, reserving a small handful for the top if you like.
  • Fill the pan: Scrape the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the reserved blueberries and coarse sugar over the surface for a light crunch.
  • Bake: Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes.
  • Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Lift it out using the parchment and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
  • Serve: Slice with a serrated knife. Enjoy plain, or spread with butter, cream cheese, or a light lemon glaze.