Lemon Loaf

Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade lemon loaf, a refreshing treat that captures the essence of citrus. Perfectly sweet and tangy, this loaf is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a festive gathering. With a simple preparation process and a handful of ingredients, you can create a loaf that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to brighten your day!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is around 50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of lemon loaf (1 slice) provides approximately: 200 calories, 8g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 15g sugars. This is based on a standard slice size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and zest until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
7. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to make this lemon loaf gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Serving and Pairings

This lemon loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a refreshing glass of lemonade. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of lemon glaze for added sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

Store the lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
• Skipping the zest will reduce the lemon flavor.
• Opening the oven door too early can cause the loaf to sink.
• Not letting the loaf cool properly can result in a soggy bottom.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
• Let the loaf cool completely before slicing.
• Add poppy seeds for a delightful crunch.
• Consider adding a lemon glaze for an extra sweet touch.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is preferred for flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. However, the taste may not be as vibrant.

How do I prevent my lemon loaf from sinking in the middle?

To prevent sinking, ensure your baking powder is fresh and avoid opening the oven door during baking.

Can I make mini lemon loaves instead?

Yes! You can divide the batter into mini loaf pans, reducing the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

What can I do with leftover lemon loaf?

Leftover lemon loaf can be toasted for breakfast or used in a trifle with whipped cream and berries.

Can I add fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! Blueberries or raspberries can complement the lemon flavor beautifully. Just fold them in gently before baking.

Conclusion

This lemon loaf recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Its moist texture and zesty taste make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a drink, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Give it a try, and enjoy the sunny flavors of lemon in every slice!

Lemon Loaf

A moist and zesty lemon loaf that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: lemon loaf, dessert, baking, citrus

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the lemon juice and zest until combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
• Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 8g