lemon bread recipe

There is something incredibly cheering about the scent of a fresh lemon bread baking in the oven. This lemon bread recipe creates a loaf that is bright, citrusy, and wonderfully moist. It is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal treat for a morning coffee break, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert.

Unlike traditional yeast breads, this is a quick bread, which means there is no kneading or waiting for dough to rise. You can whip it up in just a few minutes using simple pantry staples. The addition of a zesty lemon glaze at the end soaks into the warm bread, ensuring every bite is bursting with sunshine.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 285 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 220mg

Why Make This lemon bread recipe

This lemon bread recipe is a crowd-pleaser because of its incredible texture and vibrant flavor. It uses vegetable oil instead of butter, which keeps the crumb exceptionally tender and moist for days. It is much easier to make than a complicated cake, yet it feels just as special when served on a pretty platter.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It is a fantastic base for adding other flavors like berries or seeds. Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner, this foolproof recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every single time you bake it.

How to Make lemon bread recipe

Making this bread is a simple process that involves mixing your dry and wet ingredients separately before bringing them together into a smooth, fragrant batter. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly golden loaf with a soft, citrus-infused interior.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Directions

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter. For even easier removal, you can line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure there are no large lumps, as this helps the bread rise evenly in the oven.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Whisk in the milk, vegetable oil, fresh lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mixing the zest with the wet ingredients helps release the natural oils and intensifies the lemon aroma.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir with a spatula or whisk just until the ingredients are combined and no large streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and have a slight crack down the middle.

Step 6: Glaze and Cool

While the bread is still warm in the pan, whisk together the powdered sugar and the remaining lemon juice to create a thin glaze. Poke a few small holes in the top of the bread with a toothpick and pour the glaze over the top. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

How to Serve lemon bread recipe

This lemon bread is delicious when served slightly warm or at room temperature. For a beautiful presentation, slice the bread into thick pieces and serve it on a white plate to make the yellow color pop. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot Earl Grey tea or a cold glass of milk. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh raspberries for a more decadent dessert experience.

How to Store lemon bread recipe

To keep your lemon bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to one week. This bread also freezes beautifully; simply wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect lemon bread recipe

For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice. The zest contains the most concentrated lemon flavor, so don’t skip it! Another tip is to zest your lemons before you juice them, as it is much easier to grate a firm, whole fruit. Finally, ensure your milk and eggs are at room temperature to help the batter emulsify properly for a smoother texture.

Delicious Variations

If you want to change things up, try adding one tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic Lemon Poppy Seed Bread. You can also gently fold in a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries right before baking. For a richer flavor, swap half of the milk for Greek yogurt or sour cream to add a pleasant tang and extra moisture to the loaf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled juice in a pinch, fresh lemon juice provides a much brighter and more natural flavor. Since the recipe also calls for zest, fresh lemons are highly recommended.

Q: Why did my lemon bread sink in the middle?

Bread often sinks if the oven door is opened too early or if the baking powder is expired. Make sure your leavening agents are fresh and avoid checking the bread until it is near the end of the bake time.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Note that the texture may vary slightly depending on the brand used.

Q: How do I get more lemon flavor without adding more liquid?

The best way to boost flavor is to increase the amount of lemon zest. You can double the zest in the batter or rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers before mixing to release more oils.

Q: Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?

You can use melted butter for a richer, more buttery taste. However, keep in mind that oil-based cakes and breads generally stay moist for a longer period of time than those made with butter.

Conclusion

This lemon bread recipe is a simple yet elegant addition to any baker’s repertoire. Its bright flavor and soft texture make it a versatile treat that fits any occasion. Whether you are sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this loaf is sure to bring a little bit of sunshine into your kitchen. Happy baking!

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