The Zesty Lemon Loaf is a delightful treat that brings the brightness of spring to your table. This vibrant loaf combines the refreshing flavor of lemons with the comforting texture of a classic cake, making it an ideal pick-me-up for those grey winter days. The loaf features a moist, tender crumb infused with lemon zest and juice, while a simple yet delicious glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. It's a perfect way to celebrate the changing seasons and embrace the promise of longer days and warmer weather.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
You'll love this recipe because it's a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. The lemon zest and juice provide a refreshing burst of citrus, while the Greek yogurt and milk ensure the loaf is incredibly moist and tender. The loaf is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it an ideal treat to whip up when you need a little sunshine in your life. The glaze adds a lovely touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the loaf.
Perfect Occasion:
This Zesty Lemon Loaf is perfect for any occasion where you want to bring a touch of brightness to the table. It's ideal for brunches, family gatherings, or as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or coffee. The loaf is also great for sharing, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or as a homemade gift for friends and loved ones.
Decoration Tips:
To enhance the presentation of this lemon loaf, you can drizzle the glaze in a decorative pattern over the top of the cooled loaf. Adding a few strips of lemon zest or fresh lemon slices as a garnish can further highlight the bright and refreshing flavor of the loaf. For an extra touch of elegance, you can also dust the top with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- ½ cup softened butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup milk of your choice
- 2 eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or oil a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until light and fluffy. Mix in the Greek yogurt and milk of your choice. Whisk in the eggs until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Glaze: While the loaf is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing and serving. This loaf can be enjoyed as a delightful treat any time of day.
Enjoy!