Blackberry Loaf

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day, this Blackberry Loaf is a must-try. With its soft, tender crumb and bursts of fresh blackberries in every bite, this loaf is versatile enough for brunch, dessert, or even a midday snack. The optional sweet glaze drizzled on top adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, casual brunches, or afternoon tea. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delicious blackberry loaf at home.

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Ingredients for Blackberry Loaf

For the loaf:

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the blackberries.
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature – Provides richness and moisture.
• ½ cup (115 g) sour cream, room temperature – Keeps the loaf tender and moist.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – Helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour – The base of the loaf, giving it structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a nice rise for a light, fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavor.
• ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk, room temperature – Adds moisture and richness.
• 2 cups (288 g) fresh blackberries, divided – The star of the show, providing bursts of juicy sweetness.

For the optional glaze:

• 1 cup (125 g) confectioners’ sugar – For a smooth, sweet finish.
• 2 tablespoons milk, room temperature – To create the right consistency for the glaze.

How to Make Blackberry Loaf

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Loaf Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, grease an 8½ x 4½-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter to prevent the loaf from sticking.

2. Cream the Sugar, Butter, Sour Cream, and Egg

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the sugar, butter, sour cream, and egg. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and creamy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a handheld mixer will work just as well.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, alternate between adding the flour mixture and the milk to the batter. Start by adding a portion of the flour mixture, followed by some of the milk, and repeat until all the ingredients are combined. Be sure to start and finish with the flour mixture. This method helps create a balanced texture in the loaf.

5. Fold in the Blackberries

Gently fold in 1¾ cups of the blackberries, reserving the remaining ¼ cup for topping. Folding instead of mixing ensures the berries stay intact, distributing them evenly throughout the batter without crushing them.

6. Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan

Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of blackberries over the top. This not only makes the loaf look beautiful but also ensures you get some berry goodness in every slice.

7. Bake the Blackberry Loaf

Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes. To check if the loaf is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs (but no wet batter), the loaf is ready. Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before removing it.

Optional Glaze for an Extra Touch of Sweetness

If you’d like to add a little extra sweetness and visual appeal, the glaze is a perfect choice.

1. Make the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too runny.

2. Drizzle Over the Loaf

Once the loaf has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Blackberry Loaf

• Use Fresh Blackberries: Fresh blackberries give the best texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen berries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, sour cream, milk, and egg are all at room temperature. This ensures that the ingredients blend together smoothly and evenly.
• Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: If you decide to glaze the loaf, ensure it’s completely cooled. A warm loaf will cause the glaze to melt and become too runny.

Variations and Substitutions

This blackberry loaf recipe is highly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences:

• Mixed Berry Loaf: Instead of using just blackberries, you can mix in raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a medley of flavors.
• Lemon Blackberry Loaf: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist. You can also replace the milk in the glaze with lemon juice for a tangy contrast.
• Healthier Version: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or low-fat milk, and replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions for Blackberry Loaf

This blackberry loaf is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with some tasty sides and drinks:

• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Serve the loaf with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack or breakfast.
• Fruit Compote: For a more decadent serving option, top the loaf with a homemade fruit compote made from blackberries, raspberries, or blueberries.

Storing and Freezing Blackberry Loaf

Storing:

You can store the blackberry loaf at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

If you want to make the loaf ahead of time or save leftovers for later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Loaf

• Bursting with Berries: Each bite of this loaf is filled with juicy blackberries, giving you a fresh, fruity flavor that’s perfect for any time of year.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the sour cream and milk, the loaf has a wonderfully moist and tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: This quick bread is simple to prepare and requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
• Versatile: Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this loaf is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Final Thoughts

This Blackberry Loaf is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and tender, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a new dessert to try, or simply want to use up those fresh blackberries, this recipe is sure to impress. With its moist texture, bursts of berry flavor, and optional sweet glaze, it’s a loaf you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy a slice with your favorite drink or add a little whipped cream for an extra special treat!