Description
Lemon Loaf Cake is a moist, buttery, and zesty dessert bursting with fresh lemon flavor. With its tender crumb and sweet-tart lemon glaze, this simple yet elegant loaf is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a refreshing dessert any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined — do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency as desired.
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, brush the warm loaf with a mix of lemon juice and sugar before glazing.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This loaf also freezes beautifully — wrap tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
- Top with candied lemon slices for a bakery-style presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American