This zesty lemon loaf is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. The moist crumb, tangy lemon flavor, and sweet glaze make it irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Zest of 2 large lemons
- Juice of 2 large lemons
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
Make the Loaf:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Add lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and juice.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze:
- Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until a smooth glaze forms.
- Glaze the loaf: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Tips:
- For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest and juice.
- To make the loaf even more moist, you can add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle the glazed loaf with lemon zest or a pinch of powdered sugar.
Enjoy this delicious lemon loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!