| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 300 | 11g | 7g | 47g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 1g | 5g | 0.2g |
There’s an aroma of warmth and familiarity with this recipe, Lemon Thyme Herb Bread, a fruit-based delight holding a cherished corner of my culinary heart. Its enticing fusion of flavors seeping from the fragrant lemon thyme and zest huddled in its crumb is all at once homely and unusual—tailor-made for anyone seeking a hint of refreshment in their everyday bread.
The Culinary Adventure
Having grown up in a Louisiana household where Creole comfort food met with the gracefulness of French patisserie, my palate naturally inclines toward a blend of traditional and innovative. This recipe is a perfect illustration of that unique fusion.
Borrowing some insights from traditional lemon bread, this recipe carries a twist, thanks to the inclusion of lemon thyme—a culinary herb with a light, tart feature that complements the citrusy lemons and sweet blueberries. Imagine having a slice of this bread with your morning coffee or as a complementary piece with your Shrimp Creole—making your meal a seamless blend of both my home states and French heritage.
A Bouquet of Nutrients
Apart from its delightful flavors, what makes me love this Lemon Thyme Herb Bread even more are the associated health benefits. Thyme, for instance, is known for its antioxidant properties and vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system. Similarly, lemons are a well-known source of vitamin C, a boon for skin health and digestion. Not to forget the blueberries, a superfood loaded with antioxidants and fiber.
In short, this recipe offers a beautiful confluence of flavors, bringing together the comforting aroma of bread, the refreshing piquancy of lemon thyme, and the gentle sweetness of blueberries. Enjoy it as a standalone treat or introduce it to your meals as a unique combo—it’s bound to leave you and your loved ones enchanted. Until next time, happy baking!
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon thyme, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step Three
Beat the eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step Four
Stir in the fresh lemon thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Step Five
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step Six
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step Seven
In a small bowl, toss the blueberries with the tablespoon of flour. Fold the blueberries into the batter.
Step Eight
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step Nine
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Step Ten
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step Eleven
To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
Step Twelve
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf. Allow the glaze to set before cutting and serving your delicious Lemon Thyme Herb Bread.
