Hello, lemon lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day—a Velvety Moist Lemon Loaf with a Luscious Glaze. This lemon loaf is the perfect treat to bring a bit of sunshine to your table, no matter the season. Let’s dive into the world of tangy citrus flavors that will surely delight your taste buds.
Introduction
There’s something truly special about a freshly baked lemon loaf. The combination of zesty lemon flavor and tender, moist crumb makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. This Lemon Glazed Loaf is not just another cake; it’s a celebration of lemon’s vibrant taste and aroma.
The recipe has a wonderful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this lemon loaf is simple enough to make but impressive enough to wow your friends and family. I first fell in love with this loaf at a small bakery, and after a few tweaks, I’ve perfected my own version that I’m excited to share with you.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Lemon Glazed Loaf, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness.
How to Make Lemon Glazed Loaf
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Lemon Glazed Loaf:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside this dry mixture.
- In a large bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy. This step ensures the loaf has a great texture and a vibrant lemon flavor.
- Gradually add the melted butter, milk, and lemon juice to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined. Make sure each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next to achieve a smooth batter.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the loaf dense, so be gentle with this step.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. The batter should be evenly distributed to ensure even baking.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should have a golden-brown crust and a moist interior.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled loaf. The glaze will set slightly, adding a beautiful finish and an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before you start. This helps create a smooth, well-mixed batter.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: The lemon zest is crucial for that intense lemon flavor. Use a microplane grater for the best results, and only zest the yellow part of the lemon skin—avoid the bitter white pith.
- Parchment Paper Lining: Lining your loaf pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove the loaf without breaking it.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your loaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil.
Cooking Tips
Enhance your Lemon Glazed Loaf with these additional tips:
- Add Poppy Seeds: For a delightful twist, stir in 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter before baking. This adds a slight crunch and pairs beautifully with the lemon flavor.
- Use a Stand Mixer: If you have one, a stand mixer can make the mixing process even easier and more consistent, especially when beating the eggs and sugar.
- Citrus Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange. You can swap out the lemon juice and zest for an equally delicious result.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Glazed Loaf is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to serve it:
- With Fresh Berries: Pair slices of the loaf with a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and additional tartness.
- Tea-Time Treat: Serve a slice of this loaf with a cup of hot tea or coffee. The citrusy notes complement the richness of black tea or the bitterness of coffee.
- For Dessert: Top a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert option.
- At Brunch: This loaf makes a wonderful addition to a brunch spread, served alongside other pastries, fresh fruit, and perhaps some mimosas.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief overview of the Nutritional Information for this delightful Lemon Glazed Loaf:
Calories: 300 per slice
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 150mg
Potassium: 50mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 30g
Vitamin A: 350IU
Vitamin C: 10mg
Calcium: 40mg
Iron: 1.2mg
This loaf is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the fresh lemon juice and zest, which can help boost your immune system. However, keep in mind that it’s also a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: If you plan to keep the loaf for more than a day or two, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
Reheat: To enjoy the loaf warm, you can reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will slightly soften the glaze, making it even more delicious.
Freezing: This loaf freezes well too! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Creative Leftover Ideas: If you have leftover loaf, consider turning it into a decadent French toast or crumble it over a bowl of yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How can I make this loaf dairy-free?
You can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine, and use almond or soy milk instead of whole milk.
Why is my loaf dense?
Overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients can lead to a dense loaf. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, can add a lovely crunch. Just fold them into the batter at the end.
Related Recipes
Explore more delicious recipes:
These recipes are perfect companions to your lemon loaf, offering savory options to balance out the sweetness.
Conclusion
I hope this Lemon Glazed Loaf recipe brings a burst of sunshine to your kitchen and a smile to your face. It’s a delightful treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee, as a midday snack, or as a light dessert, this loaf is versatile enough to fit any occasion.
I’d love to hear how your loaf turns out! Feel free to share your experience and any personal twists you added to the recipe. Happy baking!
Print
Easy Lemon Glazed Loaf: Moist, Tangy, and Irresistible Treat
Description
Hello, lemon lovers! 🌟 Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day—a Velvety Moist Lemon Loaf with a Luscious Glaze. This lemon loaf is the perfect treat to bring a bit of sunshine to your table, no matter the season. Let’s dive into the world of tangy citrus flavors that will surely delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside this dry mixture.
- In a large bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy. This step ensures the loaf has a great texture and a vibrant lemon flavor.
- Gradually add the melted butter, milk, and lemon juice to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined. Make sure each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next to achieve a smooth batter.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the loaf dense, so be gentle with this step.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. The batter should be evenly distributed to ensure even baking.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should have a golden-brown crust and a moist interior.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled loaf. The glaze will set slightly, adding a beautiful finish and an extra burst of lemon flavor.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before you start. This helps create a smooth, well-mixed batter.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: The lemon zest is crucial for that intense lemon flavor. Use a microplane grater for the best results, and only zest the yellow part of the lemon skin—avoid the bitter white pith.
- Parchment Paper Lining: Lining your loaf pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove the loaf without breaking it.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your loaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil.
