Embrace the essence of spring any day of the year with this Lemon Lavender Loaf, a vegan bakery delight that promises to brighten your table and your taste buds. Crafted with the perfect balance of tangy lemon and soothing lavender, this moist loaf captures the heart of sunny days and blossoming gardens in every bite. Dairy-free, egg-free, and utterly irresistible, it's a harmonious blend of flavors that sings a melody of freshness and comfort. Whether enjoyed as a quick treat or a serene morning breakfast, this loaf is a testament to the joy of homemade baking.
Why You'll Love This:
The Lemon Lavender Loaf is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. The combination of zesty lemons and aromatic lavender offers a unique flavor profile that is both invigorating and calming. This loaf is remarkably easy to make and even easier to fall in love with, thanks to its moist texture and fragrant bouquet of flavors. It's a vegan-friendly recipe that doesn't compromise on taste or texture, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a delightful culinary adventure.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for spring celebrations, afternoon tea, or as a luxurious addition to your brunch table, this loaf is versatile and fitting for any occasion. It's also a wonderful way to bring a touch of brightness to colder days, offering a slice of spring's promise year-round. Present it at gatherings or enjoy a slice with a cup of tea in a quiet moment; either way, it's a recipe that brings joy and comfort.
Decoration Tips:
For an added touch of elegance, consider garnishing the glazed loaf with a sprinkle of edible lavender flowers and thin lemon slices or zest curls. The visual appeal of these natural elements enhances the loaf's homemade charm and emphasizes its fresh ingredients. Serve on a chic cake stand or a simple serving platter to let the beauty of this bake shine through.
Ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- 290g (approx. 2 cups + 4 tablespoons) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 120ml (1/2 cup) oat milk
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) lemon juice
- 200g (1 cup) organic sugar
- 75g (1/3 cup) melted and cooled vegan butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 170g dairy-free sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons lavender flowers
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix oat milk and lemon juice, letting it sit for 5-7 minutes to create a vegan buttermilk.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and vegan butter. Incorporate the vanilla extract and dairy-free sour cream.
- Blend in the vegan buttermilk, then gradually fold in the flour mixture. Stir in the lemon zest and lavender flowers gently to avoid overmixing.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing all the ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf, spreading it as desired.
Enjoy a slice of this Lemon Lavender Loaf, a perfect vegan treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle elegance of lavender, making every bite a delightful escape to spring.