Blackberry Bread

Blackberry Bread is one of those recipes that brings instant warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Imagine pulling a warm loaf out of the oven, the delightful aroma of sweet and tart blackberries filling the air. With its tender crumb and vibrant fruit flavor, this bread feels like a hug in a slice. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or for dessert, it’s sure to make your day just a bit brighter.

This recipe is simple enough for new bakers but rewarding enough for seasoned pros. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! The addition of a drizzle of icing elevates this bread, making it a true treat. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the sweet moments as we whip up a delightful loaf of Blackberry Bread together.

Why This Recipe Works

This Blackberry Bread is truly special. It balances sweetness and tartness beautifully, ensuring that the natural flavor of fresh blackberries shines through. Each bite offers a delightful burst of fruitiness. The secret to its moist, tender crumb lies in the buttermilk, which not only adds flavor but also creates a lovely texture. You’ll find that the directions are straightforward, making this recipe a breeze for both experienced bakers and novices alike.

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Bread

You’ll quickly discover why this Blackberry Bread is a favorite. It’s bursting with juicy blackberries, giving you that nostalgic feel of summer in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, as a delightful snack, or for dessert, it fits perfectly into your meal plan. Plus, the icing on top adds an extra touch of sweetness that enhances the overall experience.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups blackberries (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• Icing:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

Preparing the Bread Mixture

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and give it a generous coat of non-stick spray. For added ease, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, then give it another light spritz of spray. This little prep step will help your bread slide out effortlessly after baking.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and kosher salt until everything is well mixed. The texture of your dry mix is key, so take a moment to ensure it’s nice and even.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

Next, in a medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. Combine the buttermilk, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogenous. You want a silky mixture that will blend seamlessly into the dry ingredients.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to unite the two. Gently pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can toughen the bread. Fold in the blackberries consistently, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the batter. The vibrant color of the berries makes this step particularly enjoyable.

Baking the Blackberry Bread

Pour and Bake the Batter

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 to 65 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.

Cool the Bread

When your bread is finished baking, allow it to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before icing. This patience is key; you want to avoid a gooey mess!

Preparing the Icing

Whisk the Icing Ingredients Together

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. If it’s too thick, just add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency. You want a nice drizzle, not a full-on pour!

Drizzle Over the Bread

Once your bread has cooled completely, it’s icing time! Drizzle the icing over the top of the loaf. You can do this while the bread is still warm or wait until it reaches room temperature. Either way, your taste buds will thank you.

Serving Suggestions

Slice your blackberry bread warm and enjoy it with a pat of butter or a dollop of whipped cream. It makes an indulgent treat! Additionally, pairing a slice with your morning coffee or tea can create a delightful start to your day.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the blackberries are dry before folding them into the batter. Excess moisture can affect the bread’s texture.
• For the best flavor, use fresh blackberries when they’re in season. But if you’re using frozen, just make sure they’re thawed and dried well.
• Remember not to overmix the batter. This is key for keeping your bread light and fluffy.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice twist. Alternatively, swap out half of the blackberries for another berry like raspberries or blueberries for a fun change in flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your leftover blackberry bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it firmly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas

Consider serving this bread alongside a crisp salad or a light soup for a striking contrast during lunch. And for dessert, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Just make sure they are fully thawed and drained before folding them into the batter.

Q2: How do I know when the bread is done?
A2: The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Q3: Can I omit or replace the icing?
A3: Absolutely! The icing can be skipped entirely, or you can replace it with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

Q4: How should I store the blackberry bread?
A4: Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A5: Sure! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.

Enjoy the delightful process of making this wonderful blackberry bread—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy in every slice!

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