If you are searching for a delightful treat that brightens your day with every bite, this Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort bake. This tender, moist loaf bursts with fresh lemon flavor and is topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that perfectly balances the citrus zest. It’s simple enough for a weekday baking project yet special enough to share with friends and family at any gathering. From the first slice, you’ll appreciate how this classic recipe turns everyday ingredients into something magical and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is all you need to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your lemon loaf bread. Each component serves a purpose, whether it’s creating moisture, delivering rise, or infusing bright, citrusy notes.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your loaf, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Your secret to a fluffy, light crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crust.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Delivers richness and moistness to the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and provide structure.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and keeps the crumb soft.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: The star ingredient for that zesty brightness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Packs an aromatic punch of fresh lemon flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, sweet depth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth finish on top.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze): Adds a tangy contrast that keeps the glaze refreshing.
How to Make Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously and line it with parchment paper so your loaf slides out easily once baked. Taking this simple step ensures your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly formed.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, which is critical for a consistent rise and well-balanced flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter, which helps your loaf achieve a tender texture and beautiful crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients bring your Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe to life with zesty brightness and warm undertones.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your loaf tender and avoid toughness.
Step 6: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top for an even bake. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s done when the loaf has risen, turned a lovely golden color, and the kitchen smells heavenly.
Step 7: Cool the Bread
Allow the loaf to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then, carefully transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the bread from becoming soggy and lets it set up nicely.
Step 8: Make and Add the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice to create a smooth glaze. While the loaf is still warm, drizzle this tangy glaze over the top. Let it cool completely so the glaze can set, creating a delightful sweet and tart finish that elevates the entire loaf.
How to Serve Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle thin slices of fresh lemon or a pinch of lemon zest on top of the glazed loaf. A few fresh mint leaves on the side can add a refreshing contrast both in flavor and presentation. These simple garnishes make your lemon loaf look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This lemon loaf bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack. If you’re serving it as part of a brunch spread, consider fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for complementary textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the loaf and serve it as mini toasts topped with cream cheese and a drizzle of honey for an unexpected twist. You can also turn thick slices into a decadent French toast with a squeeze of lemon syrup to amplify that fresh citrus flavor. The possibilities with this Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover lemon loaf bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating if possible, as that can dry out the bread quickly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this loaf longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked feeling, gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. The glaze will soften, and the lemon aroma will become even more inviting, making your second round just as special as the first.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice and zest?
While lemon extract can be used in a pinch, nothing compares to the bright, vibrant flavor of fresh lemon juice and zest in this Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe. Fresh lemons give the loaf its bright aroma and natural tartness, which store-bought extracts often can’t replicate.
What can I substitute for buttermilk or milk in the recipe?
If you don’t have milk on hand, you can use an equal amount of yogurt or sour cream, which will add moisture and a slight tanginess, complementing the lemon. Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes works well as a buttermilk substitute.
How do I know when the lemon loaf is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your loaf is ready. The top should be golden and spring back when lightly pressed.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to help with texture since gluten-free flours behave differently.
Is the glaze necessary or can I skip it?
The glaze adds a wonderful sweet and tart finishing touch, but if you prefer a less sweet loaf, you can skip it. The bread itself is moist and flavorful on its own, though the glaze really elevates the overall taste experience.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe is a marvelous, easy way to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen any day of the week. The bright citrus flavors paired with a tender crumb and sweet glaze make it a memorable treat for both casual and special occasions. Once you bake this loaf, it’s sure to become a treasured recipe you’ll return to again and again. Go ahead, grab your lemons, and get baking — your cozy, irresistible loaf is waiting!
Print
Lemon Loaf Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (9×5 inch)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Loaf Bread is a moist and flavorful treat with a bright citrus twist. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, it combines the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, finished with a light lemon glaze for an irresistible finish. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this easy-to-make loaf brings a burst of sunshine to any table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with citrusy flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess on the bottom.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: While the loaf is still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth to create the glaze. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the loaf and allow it to set as the bread cools completely.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to maintain a tender crumb.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright lemon flavor.
- Check the loaf at 50 minutes to prevent overbaking; ovens vary.
- Let the glaze set fully before slicing for a neat finish.
