Crafting a delightful Lemon Loaf is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Imagine walking into your kitchen, and the scent of tangy lemons starts to fill the air. That’s exactly what happens when you bake this scrumptious loaf. The blend of zesty lemon, creamy Greek yogurt, and just the right amount of sweetness creates a mouthwatering treat that feels sophisticated yet comforting. It’s perfect for breakfast, a pick-me-up snack, or even dessert. Plus, the bright, sunny flavor is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this delightful Lemon Loaf from scratch. Trust me, you and your loved ones will be glad you did!
Why This Recipe Works
Crafting the perfect Lemon Loaf is a delightful combination of science and art. This recipe emphasizes the balance between moistness and flavor intensity, achieved through the use of Greek yogurt and a careful mix of ingredients. The use of lemon syrup and glaze adds a delicious tang that complements the loaf’s sweetness, ensuring every bite is bursting with refreshing citrus notes.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Loaf
This Lemon Loaf recipe is not just about taste; it’s about experience. The zesty aroma while it bakes brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy brunch with friends or an afternoon tea. With its bright flavor and luscious texture, this loaf is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for syrup)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for syrup)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for icing)
Combining Wet Ingredients
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×4 (or 9×5) loaf pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 2 minutes, ensuring it’s fluffy. Scrape down the sides as needed for an even blend.
Incorporate the Eggs and Yogurt
Next, add the room temperature eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing until everything is thoroughly combined, about 1 additional minute. This creamy base will add moisture and flavor.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Whisking helps ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents and flavor, which is crucial for a well-risen loaf.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Fold in the Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Mixing too much can lead to a denser loaf, and nobody wants that!
Baking the Lemon Loaf
Transfer and Bake
Now, pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even layer. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Cool the Loaf
After baking, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Letting it cool is important because it allows the flavors to settle!
Creating the Lemon Syrup
Prepare Lemon Syrup
While the loaf cools, whisk together 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar in a bowl to create a lemon syrup. This syrup adds a sweet and tangy kick that enhances the loaf.
Glazing the Loaf
Brush with Syrup
Once your loaf has cooled down, take a moment to brush the entire surface with the lemon syrup. This step ensures that the syrup soaks in, enhancing every bite with its refreshing flavor.
Making the Lemon Icing
Whisk Icing Ingredients
For the icing, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of milk in a bowl. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency. This sweet topping adds an extra layer of flavor!
Drizzle Over the Loaf
Now, pour the icing over the top of your cooled loaf. Allow it to set for a bit before slicing, helping the icing to adhere beautifully to the yummy loaf.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to enjoy your Lemon Loaf, consider pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee. It also tastes wonderful alongside fresh berries and whipped cream, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t skip the syrup; it adds an essential layer of flavor!
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to ensure the icing sets properly.
Variations
- Feeling adventurous? Add poppy seeds for a pop of texture.
- Experiment with blueberries for a fruity twist!
- Swap lemons for oranges or limes to try a new citrus flavor.
Storage Tips
To keep any leftover Lemon Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap, then in a zip-top bag, for up to 3 months.
Pairing Ideas
- Creamy butter or mascarpone cheese adds richness to each bite.
- Consider pairing it with a glass of iced herbal tea, which complements the refreshing lemon flavor perfectly.
FAQs
1. Can I use different yogurt types?
Absolutely! You can use regular or low-fat yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides the best texture and moisture.
2. What can I substitute for butter?
Melted coconut oil or dairy-free margarine works well for a vegan option.
3. Can I make mini lemon loaves?
Yes! Just follow the same instructions but adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.
4. Is this recipe easy to double?
Definitely! Double the ingredients and use larger pans or another loaf pan.
5. How do I know when my loaf is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or have a few moist crumbs attached when ready.
This Lemon Loaf is not only simple to prepare but also offers joy in every slice. Its bright, tangy flavor makes it an uplifting treat, turning any gathering into a celebration. Whether enjoyed fresh at breakfast or as a sweet snack, it will surely please and brighten anyone’s day!
Print
Lemon Loaf
This Lemon Loaf combines zesty lemon, creamy Greek yogurt, and the perfect balance of sweetness. It’s a comforting treat that’s easy to make and delightful at any time of the day.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for syrup)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for syrup)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add eggs, yogurt, vanilla, and lemon juice; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Prepare lemon syrup by mixing lemon juice and powdered sugar.
- Brush syrup over cooled loaf.
- Make icing by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk; drizzle over loaf.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Do not skip the lemon syrup; it enhances the flavor significantly.
Cool completely before glazing to ensure icing sets properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 40
