Lemon Loaf Recipe
Lemon Loaf Recipe brings a burst of bright citrus flavor that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, conjuring memories of warm days and sunny afternoons. This easy, step-by-step recipe will have you whisking up a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a cozy afternoon tea or seeking a show-stopping dessert for family gatherings. With its moist texture and zesty glaze, this Lemon Loaf is bound to become a cherished favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of this Lemon Loaf Recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that dazzles friends and family. This recipe is a fantastic beginner-friendly option, allowing even the least experienced bakers to impress their loved ones. Moreover, the quick prep time makes it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or cozy weekends at home. Its lemony flavor is refreshing and uplifting—perfect for brightening anyone’s day!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your loaf, providing a delicate crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your loaf rises beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Adds extra lift and lightness to the texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing sweetness and acidity.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamy richness for a moist loaf.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that complements the zesty lemon.
- 2 large eggs: Add structure and moisture, enriching the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Invigorating aroma and concentrated citrus flavor.
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice: Juicy, tangy essence that defines this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides depth to the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweet topping that adds a delightful finish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze): Lightens the glaze and amplifies lemon goodness.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s easy to remove your loaf later. Line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance against sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry blend ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the mix, creating a tender texture.
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Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add in the eggs, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until these luscious ingredients are fully combined, allowing their flavors to blend harmoniously.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet mix. Gently fold until just combined—over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf.
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Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even bake throughout.
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Bake to Perfection: Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should be a beautiful golden color.
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Cool and Glaze: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled loaf, adding a sugary shine.
Tips & Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allowing the loaf to cool properly helps avoid a soggy bottom, ensuring a scrumptious finish.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding poppy seeds or local nuts for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Lemon Loaf is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various beverages. Enjoy a slice alongside a cup of fragrant tea or a refreshing lemonade. It’s also fantastic with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a more festive touch, serve it during holiday brunches or birthday celebrations—your guests will be tantalized by the zesty goodness!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 260 per slice (based on a standard 12-slice loaf)
- Total Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on serving sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Maintaining balance is essential; enjoy this delightful treat as part of an overall healthy diet.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store your Lemon Loaf, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring it stays fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. You can also freeze slices in an airtight container for up to three months, making this a convenient recipe to prepare ahead of time. For variations, consider replacing lemon with orange or lime, or incorporating poppy seeds or blueberries for a delightful twist.
Conclusion
Why wait? This enchanting Lemon Loaf Recipe is straightforward, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. The refreshing flavors and easy prep make it an ideal treat to share with family and friends. Try your hand at baking this delightful loaf and let its cheerful citrus flavor brighten your day!
FAQs
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Can I use less sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the granulated sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it may affect the loaf’s texture and sweetness. Experiment with reducing it by about ¼ cup for a less sweet version. -
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
For an egg substitute, consider using applesauce (¼ cup for each egg), flaxseed meal mixed with water, or commercial egg replacers, but be aware this may alter the texture slightly. -
Can I make mini loaves instead?
Absolutely! You can use mini loaf pans—just adjust the baking time to around 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. -
How can I enhance the lemon flavor?
For an extra zing, increase the lemon zest or juice slightly, or incorporate lemon extract for a concentrated flavor boost. -
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftover Lemon Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for longer storage. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to maintain freshness.
Lemon Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Lemon Loaf filled with bright citrus flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet mix and gently fold until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice for the glaze and drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Notes
Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Allow the loaf to cool properly to avoid a soggy bottom.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
