Description
This lemon loaf is bright, buttery, soft, and packed with fresh citrus flavor in every slice. It is the kind of easy recipe that works beautifully for a quick breakfast, sweet brunch table, afternoon snack, or simple dessert. With a moist crumb, fresh lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, and a smooth glaze on top, this homemade lemon loaf delivers classic bakery flavor with simple pantry ingredients and easy steps. It is one of my favorite food ideas when I want a reliable baked treat that feels cheerful, fresh, and completely irresistible.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
3/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Line it with parchment paper if desired.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla extract.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
10. Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice for the glaze.
11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.
12. Slice and serve.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor and best aroma.
Do not overmix the batter once the flour goes in or the loaf can turn dense instead of tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: lemon loaf, easy lemon loaf, glazed lemon loaf, lemon bread, homemade lemon loaf, easy recipe, quick breakfast, breakfast ideas, food ideas, dessert bread, citrus dessert