Lemon loaf is a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons with a soft and moist texture. This easy recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing dessert or snack with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, enjoying it with a cup of tea, or gifting it to a friend, lemon loaf is sure to please.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 65-75 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250
- Protein: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 34 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 15 grams
- Sodium: 120 mg
Why Make This Lemon Loaf
This lemon loaf is not only incredibly simple to make, but it also brings a burst of sunshine into your kitchen. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing tang that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sweetness of the loaf. With its tender crumb and fragrant aroma, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a deliciously uplifting treat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or dressed up with a glaze or fresh berries for special occasions.
How to Make Lemon Loaf
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure easy removal later on.
Step 2: Mixing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents.
In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will give the loaf a nice rise.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully integrated into the mixture for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract for added flavor. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture to maintain a good consistency.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy on the bottom.
How to Serve Lemon Loaf
Lemon loaf can be enjoyed in countless ways! Serve it plain for a simple, refreshing snack or drizzle it with a lemon glaze for a little extra sweetness. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful dessert, or enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or coffee at breakfast or brunch.
How to Store Lemon Loaf
Store your lemon loaf wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Loaf
- Use fresh lemons: The zest and juice from fresh lemons will give your loaf the best flavor compared to bottled options.
- Room temperature ingredients: Having eggs and butter at room temperature helps them mix more easily, leading to a lighter texture.
- Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your loaf during the last few minutes of baking. Every oven has its quirks!
Delicious Variations
- Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Glazed Lemon Loaf: Create a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a pourable consistency. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
- Blueberry Lemon Loaf: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries for added sweetness and a pop of color.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You might want to use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose for a lighter loaf. -
How do I know when my loaf is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with batter, continue baking. -
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Yes! You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. -
What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
You can use a round cake pan or muffin tins. Just adjust the baking time, as smaller portions will cook faster. -
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! You can fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts or white chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This lemon loaf recipe is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and sure to brighten anyone’s day. Its lovely balance of sweetness and tartness will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients and give this lemon loaf a try — it just might become your new favorite dessert! Happy baking!
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Lemon Loaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful lemon loaf that combines zesty flavors with a soft and moist texture, perfect for brunch or as a refreshing snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a sweeter flavor, drizzle with a lemon glaze or pair with fresh berries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
