01 -
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan. I usually line mine with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides – makes it so easy to lift out later, you know? Then, grate your zucchini. This is where I always get a little messy, zucchini shreds everywhere! After grating, pop it onto a few layers of paper towels and give it a good squeeze to remove that extra moisture. This step is crucial for a perfectly moist (not soggy!) loaf.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. I love how the cinnamon smells when it hits the flour, it just signals that something delicious is about to happen. Make sure there are no lumps, we want everything well combined for an even bake. This simple step sets the stage for a wonderful quick bread.
03 -
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This is where the magic really starts to happen for our Lemon Blueberry Zucchini Bread. I always take a moment to really smell that lemon zest – it’s so invigorating! Make sure everything is nicely incorporated, no streaks of egg yolk left behind.
04 -
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing is a common mistake and can lead to a tough bread. Then, gently fold in your squeezed zucchini and the blueberries (tossed in a little flour, remember?). I usually give it just a few turns until the blueberries are distributed, and a few zucchini strands are still visible.
05 -
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Pop it into the preheated oven. Now, the waiting game begins! This Lemon Blueberry Zucchini Bread usually takes about 50-60 minutes to bake. I always set a timer for 45 minutes and then check it. The smell that starts to fill your kitchen is honestly divine; it’s one of my favorite parts.
06 -
To check if your loaf is done, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! If it’s still wet, give it another 5-10 minutes. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes on a wire rack before lifting it out using those parchment paper overhangs. Let it cool completely on the rack before slicing, if you can resist!