This Zesty Lemon Loaf is a delightful dessert that is bursting with fresh lemon flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. The moist and tender loaf is infused with lemon juice and zest, giving it a bright and citrusy flavor that is sure to brighten your day.
Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Loaf:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
How to Make Zesty Lemon Loaf:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Sour Cream:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Make the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
8. Glaze the Loaf:
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm loaf.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients:
Lemons:
Fresh lemon juice and zest are the star ingredients in this recipe, providing a bright and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the loaf. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making this dessert a healthier option.
Sour Cream:
Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the loaf, resulting in a tender and flavorful texture. It also helps to balance the sweetness of the sugar and lemon glaze.
Butter:
Butter adds richness and flavor to the loaf, helping to create a tender crumb. Make sure to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the recipe.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense loaf.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
This Zesty Lemon Loaf is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its bright and citrusy flavor, moist texture, and sweet glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
