Description
This Delightfully Zesty Lemon Loaf features a moist, tender crumb bursting with fresh lemon flavor, complemented by a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for a bright, refreshing dessert or snack, this classic loaf combines the zest and juice of fresh lemons with a buttery, sweet batter, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures your leavening and seasoning are well-distributed.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, using a mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step aerates the batter and contributes to a tender texture.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully. Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, combining thoroughly.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the loaf.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the loaf: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and allows the loaf to set properly.
- Make the glaze: While the loaf cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust with more lemon juice if necessary to reach desired consistency.
- Glaze and serve: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides for an attractive finish. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding an extra teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best, brightest taste.
- You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative if desired.
- Store leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- The glaze can be adjusted for thicker or thinner consistency by varying the lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
