Delightfully Zesty Lemon Bubble Bread Recipe with Lemon Sugar and Icing

Experience the burst of lemony goodness with this Delightfully Zesty Lemon Bubble Bread. Each piece of this pull-apart bread is coated in lemon sugar and baked to perfection, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Topped with a tangy lemon icing, this bread is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This: This Lemon Bubble Bread is not only delicious but also fun to make. The dough balls, coated in lemon sugar, create a delightful texture and flavor in every bite. The combination of the light, fluffy bread with the sweet and tangy lemon icing makes this recipe a standout. It’s perfect for lemon lovers and those who enjoy a unique twist on traditional bread.

Perfect Occasion: This Lemon Bubble Bread is ideal for brunches, afternoon teas, or as a sweet breakfast treat. Its vibrant flavor and eye-catching appearance make it perfect for spring and summer gatherings, family get-togethers, or as a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Decoration Tips: For an elegant presentation, drizzle the lemon icing generously over the warm bread, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can also garnish with extra lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor. For a festive touch, add a few edible flowers or mint leaves. Serve the bread on a beautiful platter to enhance its visual appeal.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp (89 ml) warm milk (110°F)
• 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar, divided
• 3/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 cups (255 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature, cubed

For the Lemon Sugar:

• 6 tbsp (75 g) sugar
• Zest of 2 medium lemons
• 3 tbsp (43 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Icing:

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
• Dash of fine sea salt
• 1-2 tbsp half & half or milk

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with 1/2 tsp of sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it bloom until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix the flour, salt, and remaining sugar until combined.
3. In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla together. Gradually add the egg mixture and the milk mixture to the flour. Beat on low speed until combined.
4. Switch to the dough hook. On medium speed, add the butter a little at a time, ensuring each addition is incorporated before adding the next. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a large oiled bowl, turning the dough over to coat lightly with oil. Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1-1 1/2 hours.

Prepare the Lemon Sugar:

1. Mix the sugar and lemon zest together in a shallow bowl or plate.

Shape and Bake:

1. Divide the dough into 20 equal portions and form into balls. Brush them with melted butter, then roll in the lemon sugar. Arrange the dough balls in a buttered 10-inch round baking dish or cake pan (a 9-inch square baking pan also works).
2. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with any remaining lemon sugar. Let rise until almost doubled in size, about 20-30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake until the tops are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Let cool for about 20 minutes.

Prepare the Icing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar, lemon juice, salt, and 1 tbsp of half & half together until smooth. Add more half & half as needed to reach your desired consistency.
2. Top the warm bread with the lemon icing.

Enjoy this Delightfully Zesty Lemon Bubble Bread, a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess that will brighten up any occasion!