This Moist and Tangy Lemon Loaf with Sweet Citrus Glaze is a zesty, flavorful treat that’s perfect for lemon lovers! The loaf is incredibly moist, packed with bright lemon flavor, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Here’s how to make it:
Moist and Tangy Lemon Loaf with Sweet Citrus Glaze
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ½ cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or plain yogurt (for moisture)
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
For the Citrus Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Infuse sugar with lemon zest: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until fragrant. This releases the lemon oils and enhances the flavor.
- Cream butter and sugar: Add the softened butter to the lemon sugar and beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream (or yogurt). Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Citrus Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice (for a thinner glaze) or more powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
- Stir in the lemon zest if desired for extra flavor.
Glaze the Loaf:
- Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender.
- For extra moisture, brush the warm loaf with a simple syrup made of equal parts sugar and lemon juice before glazing.
This Moist and Tangy Lemon Loaf is bursting with citrus flavor and has the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!
