Introduction
Bright, tender, and infused with zesty lemon flavor, this lemon loaf cake is the perfect treat for any home baker. Enjoy a delightful slice with your morning tea or as a sweet afternoon snack!
Recipe Overview
Yield: One 9×5-inch loaf (about 8 servings)
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or use ½ cup oil)
– 2 large eggs
– Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
– ½ cup milk or buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: 2 tablespoons poppy seeds or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice
Equipment Needed
– 9×5-inch loaf pan
– Mixer or whisk
– Zester or microplane
– Toothpick for testing doneness
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease the loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. If using oil, mix it with the sugar instead.
3. Add eggs one at a time, then incorporate the lemon zest, and juice while mixing on low speed to maintain lift.
4. Fold in the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) until just combined, followed by the milk and vanilla.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing and Serving Tips
For an extra lemon punch, consider adding more zest to your glaze or batter. To make a glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, and drizzle it over the cooled loaf or brush it on for a soak-in effect. Slice using a serrated knife to keep the crumb intact. Enjoy your luscious lemon loaf!
Quick Tips
To prevent a soggy bottom, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment! Each slice has an estimated 200 calories.