Lemon Loaf Recipe: If you love citrusy, moist, and fluffy cakes, then a homemade lemon loaf is a must-try! This delightful treat is perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert. With its refreshing lemon flavor and a light drizzle of glaze, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just indulging in a personal craving, this easy lemon loaf recipe will guide you step by step. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Needed for Lemon Loaf
To make the perfect lemon loaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
- Swap coconut sugar for granulated sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Replace butter with vegetable oil for a moister texture.
Fresh lemons are key to the best flavor—avoid using bottled juice if possible!
Essential Kitchen Tools for Baking
Before you start, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Electric mixer or whisk – Helps mix ingredients smoothly.
- Zester or grater – For fresh lemon zest.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts.
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch) – The perfect size for this recipe.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray – Prevents sticking.
- Cooling rack – Helps cool the loaf evenly.
Having everything prepared makes baking smoother and more enjoyable!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Loaf
Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
For the best lemon flavor:
- Use a zester to get fresh lemon zest.
- Roll the lemon before cutting to release more juice.
Step 2: Mixing the Batter
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
- Do not overmix—this keeps the loaf soft and fluffy.
Step 3: Baking the Lemon Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cooling the Loaf
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Wait until completely cool before adding the glaze.
Making the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Drizzle over the cooled loaf for a sweet, tangy finish.
For variations:
- Add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Mix in a little cream cheese for a thicker glaze.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
- Serve with tea, coffee, or fresh fruit.
- Store at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze in slices for up to 3 months.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Overmixing the batter – Leads to a dense loaf.
Using too much flour – Measure properly for the best texture.
Skipping the glaze – Adds extra moisture and flavor!
Variations of Lemon Loaf
- Lemon Blueberry Loaf – Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
- Vegan Lemon Loaf – Use almond milk and flax eggs.
- Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf – Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per slice: ~280
- Carbs: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g
- Rich in Vitamin C from fresh lemons!
FAQs about Lemon Loaf Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for a lemon loaf?
To make a delicious lemon loaf, you will need basic ingredients such as all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Some recipes might also include vanilla extract or a glaze made with lemon juice and powdered sugar.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free lemon loaf by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is suitable for baking and includes xanthan gum if the recipe requires elasticity.
3. How do I ensure my lemon loaf is moist and not dry?
To keep your lemon loaf moist, ensure not to overmix the batter as it can make the bread tough. Also, check the loaf with a toothpick 5-10 minutes before the recipe’s stated baking time to avoid over-baking.
4. Can I add other flavors to my lemon loaf?
Absolutely! Adding poppy seeds, blueberries, or raspberries can enhance the flavor profile of your lemon loaf. You can also try incorporating almond or coconut extract for a subtle twist.
5. How long will the lemon loaf stay fresh?
A lemon loaf can stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature when properly covered. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.
6. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, to make a vegan lemon loaf, substitute the eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk and butter, and ensure your sugar is vegan. The results are just as tasty and indulgent.
By addressing these common questions, you can bake a lemon loaf that’s both delectable and perfectly suited to your dietary preferences. Enjoy the zesty goodness in every slice!
Conclusion
Now you know how to make a delicious, bakery-style lemon loaf at home! This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. So, grab your lemons and start baking—you won’t regret it!
