Lemon loaf bread is a classic dessert that is known for its refreshing and tangy flavor. It is a type of quick bread, meaning it does not require yeast to rise. Instead, it uses baking powder and baking soda to give it a light and fluffy texture. Lemon loaf bread is typically made with fresh lemon juice and zest, which give it a bright citrus flavor. It can be served as a dessert or for breakfast, either warm or at room temperature.
Here is a recipe for lemon loaf bread:
Serving size and preparation time:
Here’s the serving size and preparation time for lemon loaf bread:
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 50-60 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Note that the preparation and baking times may vary depending on your level of experience and your kitchen equipment.
Ingredients:
For the bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk, room temperature
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and mix until fully combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the loaf is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Once the loaf is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top of the loaf and let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade lemon loaf bread!
Serving suggestion:
Lemon loaf bread can be served in a variety of ways, depending on personal preferences. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Sliced with Butter: The lemon flavor pairs well with the richness of butter, so consider serving slices of the bread with a pat of butter on top.
- Glazed: For an extra sweet and tangy kick, drizzle a lemon glaze on top of the bread. A simple glaze can be made by mixing powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice.
- Toasted: If you’re a fan of toast, try toasting a slice of lemon loaf bread and serving it with a poached egg, bacon, and avocado for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
- Topped with Berries: Serve a slice of lemon loaf bread with fresh berries on top. Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries pair well with the lemon flavor.
- Ice Cream: For a delicious dessert, try serving a warm slice of lemon loaf bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Lemon loaf bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings. Overall, it is a perfect dessert to enjoy during the summer or to brighten up a dreary winter day.