This Glazed Lemon Loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a moist, tender crumb and a refreshing lemon glaze. It’s a light yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a snack. The citrusy flavor is bright and inviting, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This lemon loaf is super easy to make and delivers big on flavor. The fresh lemon zest and juice infuse the loaf with a burst of citrus, while the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness. Plus, it’s light enough to enjoy anytime and versatile enough to serve at gatherings, holidays, or just when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour
Sugar, eggs, and butter
Fresh lemon juice and zest
Baking powder and salt
Milk or buttermilk
Powdered sugar for the glaze
You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan (or line with parchment paper) for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the loaf is baking, make the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Once the loaf has cooled for about 10 minutes in the pan, remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, stir just until incorporated to avoid a dense loaf.
Lemon zest: For extra lemon flavor, make sure to zest the lemons before juicing them.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Blueberry Lemon Loaf: Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Dairy-free: Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and the milk with almond or coconut milk.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This lemon loaf is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for extra indulgence. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea, coffee, or even a refreshing iced lemonade for the perfect afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep it fresh, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap before storing. You can also freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature and drizzle the glaze when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice and zest are recommended, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

2. How do I know when the loaf is done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the loaf is done.

3. Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Yes, this loaf keeps well for several days. In fact, the flavor develops even more after a day or two.

4. Can I add more glaze to the loaf?
Absolutely! If you love a sweeter, more indulgent loaf, feel free to drizzle extra glaze over the top.

Conclusion

This Glazed Lemon Loaf is a citrusy, sweet delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb and refreshing lemon glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this loaf is sure to impress!