This glazed lemon loaf recipe is a perfect treat for lemon lovers. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, this loaf has a bright citrus flavor that's complemented by a sweet glaze. Whether you're serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, you'll find this lemon loaf is a delightful addition to your table.
The main ingredients of this recipe are quite common and are likely to be found in your pantry or fridge. However, you may need to purchase fresh lemons if you do not have them at home. The recipe uses both the juice and the zest of the lemon, so make sure to pick lemons that are firm and have a smooth skin. As for the sour cream, it is often used in baking for its ability to make baked goods tender and moist.
Ingredients for Glazed Lemon Loaf
All purpose flour: This is the base of the loaf, providing structure.
Baking soda and baking powder: These ingredients help the loaf rise during baking.
Salt: It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: It makes the loaf rich and tender.
Sugar: It sweetens the loaf.
Eggs: They add structure and help with leavening.
Vanilla: It adds flavor.
Lemon juice and lemon zest: They give the loaf its lemon flavor.
Sour cream: It makes the loaf moist.
Powdered sugar: It sweetens the glaze.
Milk: It thins the glaze to the right consistency.
One reader, Ashly Wainwright says:
This glazed lemon loaf recipe is a game-changer! The loaf turned out moist and bursting with zesty lemon flavor. The glaze added the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing citrus treat. I'll definitely be making this again!
Essential Techniques for Making a Perfect Glazed Lemon Loaf
How to prepare the loaf pan: Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent the lemon loaf from sticking to the pan.
How to sift dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
How to make the lemon glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and lemon juice, then gradually add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the glaze reaches the desired consistency. Spread the glaze on top of the cooled lemon loaf.
How To Make Glazed Lemon Bread
Fans of citrus flavors will love this lemon bread. It’s soft and moist and covered in a sweet lemon glaze that’s bursting with aroma and tangy flavors.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall purpose flour
- ¼tspbaking soda
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 1cupsugar
- 3eggs
- 1tspvanilla
- 1lemon,juiced and zested
- ⅓cupsour cream
For Lemon Glaze:
- 1cuppowdered sugar
- 1tbsplemon juice
- 3tbspmilk
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
-
In a medium sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
-
In a stand mixer, add the butter and sugar and beat until creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla, lemon juice, zest, and sour cream and mix until combined. Add in the flour and mix until incorporated.
-
Spread the batter evenly into a loaf pan.
-
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and toothpick inserted comes clean. Remove from oven and let cool.
Lemon Glaze:
-
In a small bowl, add the powdered sugar, lemon juice and milk. Add in the milk. 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches desired consistency.
-
Spread on top of cooled bread.
-
Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 260.87kcal
- Fat: 10.25g
- Saturated Fat: 6.03g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.75g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.62g
- Carbohydrates: 39.64g
- Fiber: 0.56g
- Sugar: 27.07g
- Protein: 3.35g
- Cholesterol: 64.02mg
- Sodium: 111.54mg
- Calcium: 37.68mg
- Potassium: 56.83mg
- Iron: 0.99mg
- Vitamin A: 94.91µg
- Vitamin C: 3.11mg
How To Make Glazed Lemon Bread
Fans of citrus flavors will love this lemon bread. It’s soft and moist and covered in a sweet lemon glaze that’s bursting full of aroma and taste.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall purpose flour
- ¼tspbaking soda
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 1cupsugar
- 3eggs
- 1tspvanilla
- 1lemon juice
- 1lemon zest
- ⅓cupsour cream
For Lemon Glaze:
- 1cuppowdered sugar
- 1tbsplemon juice
- 1-3tbspmilk
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
-
In a medium sized bowl sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a stand mixer add the butter and sugar and beat until creamy.
-
Add in the eggs, vanilla, lemon juice, zest, and sour cream and mix until combined. Add in the flour and mix until incorporated. Spread the batter evenly into a loaf pan.
-
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and toothpick inserted comes clean. Remove from oven and let cool.
-
In a small bowl add the powdered sugar, lemon juice and milk. Add in the milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches desired consistency. Spread on top of cooled bread.
Nutrition
- Calories: 259.29kcal
- Fat: 10.16g
- Saturated Fat: 5.98g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.62g
- Carbohydrates: 39.51g
- Fiber: 0.54g
- Sugar: 26.97g
- Protein: 3.25g
- Cholesterol: 63.77mg
- Sodium: 110.46mg
- Calcium: 35.18mg
- Potassium: 52.58mg
- Iron: 0.98mg
- Vitamin A: 93.74µg
- Vitamin C: 3.39mg
Crucial Technique Tip for a Flawless Glazed Lemon Loaf
When zesting the lemon, make sure to only scrape off the bright yellow outer layer. The white pith underneath is bitter and can affect the overall taste of your glazed lemon loaf. Using a microplane grater can make this process easier and more precise. Also, to get the most juice out of your lemon, roll it on the counter before cutting and squeezing. This breaks down some of the fibers inside the fruit, making it easier to extract the juice.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Glazed Lemon Loaf Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Room temperature: Ensure that the eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This will help the ingredients mix more easily and reduce the overall baking time.
Multi-task: While the loaf is baking, use that time to prepare the lemon glaze. This will help streamline the process and save time in the kitchen.
Organized workspace: Keep all the ingredients and utensils organized and within reach. This will prevent any unnecessary time spent searching for items while cooking.
Efficient mixing: Use a stand mixer to quickly and thoroughly mix the batter, ensuring a consistent texture without spending excessive time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Glazed Lemon Bread Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This is a great alternative for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease.
baking soda - Substitute with double-acting baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but you will need to use more of it.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: You can make your own baking powder by combining baking soda and cream of tartar in a 1:2 ratio.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in baking, but it may affect the flavor and texture of the final product.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar, but you may need to adjust the other liquid ingredients in the recipe.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs in baking, especially in recipes that call for multiple eggs.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a similar citrus flavor to the recipe.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can be used as a substitute for lemon zest, adding a slightly different citrus flavor to the recipe.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed in a blender or food processor to create a substitute for powdered sugar, although the texture may be slightly different.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a tangy and acidic flavor to the recipe.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for milk in baking, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the recipe.
How to Beautifully Present a Glazed Lemon Loaf
Elevate the plating: When presenting the glazed lemon loaf, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a rectangular plate to showcase the loaf, and consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar around the edges for a touch of sophistication.
Garnish with lemon zest: Sprinkle a delicate amount of freshly grated lemon zest on top of the glazed loaf to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma, enhancing the overall sensory experience for the judges.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a subtle yet stunning element by adorning the plate with a few carefully placed edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or lavender, to bring a touch of natural beauty to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the glazed lemon loaf to stand out as the focal point. Consider using minimalist plating techniques to create a visually striking and balanced composition.
Accent with a lemon twist: Create a thin, elegant twist of fresh lemon peel to adorn the plate, adding a sophisticated and artistic touch that complements the flavors of the glazed lemon loaf.
Storing and Freezing Your Glazed Lemon Loaf
Let the glazed lemon loaf cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the loaf soggy.
To store the loaf at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze the loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. The loaf will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen loaf, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can slice and serve the loaf as desired.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the loaf, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two whenever you want a quick treat.
To refresh the loaf after storing or freezing, you can warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This will help restore some of the moisture and freshness to the lemon loaf.
How To Reheat Leftover Glazed Lemon Loaf
To reheat leftover glazed lemon loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the loaf from drying out.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a slice of the lemon loaf on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds on high power. If it's not warm enough, continue heating in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the loaf to become tough and rubbery.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the lemon loaf in a toaster oven. Cut the loaf into slices and place them on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is warm.
If you want to refresh the glaze on your lemon loaf, you can make a new batch and drizzle it over the reheated slices. Simply mix together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a little milk until you reach the desired consistency, then spoon it over the warm loaf.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a skillet on the stovetop. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat, then add a slice of the lemon loaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and lightly golden.
Interesting Fact About Glazed Lemon Loaf
The glazed lemon loaf recipe is a popular dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Is Making Glazed Lemon Loaf at Home Cost-Effective?
This glazed lemon loaf recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and lemons, are commonly found in most households. The cost of these ingredients is relatively low, making this recipe budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, depending on the availability and pricing of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Is This Lemon Loaf Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This lemon loaf recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar (1 cup) and butter (½ cup), which are high in calories and saturated fat
- All-purpose flour is used, which is refined and lacks the nutrients and fiber found in whole grain flours
- The lemon glaze adds even more sugar to the recipe, further increasing the calorie and carbohydrate content
However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as:
- Eggs, which are a good source of protein and nutrients like choline and vitamin D
- Lemon juice and zest, which provide vitamin C and antioxidants
- Sour cream, which adds some protein and calcium to the recipe
To make this lemon loaf healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia, or simply decrease the amount of sugar used
- Swap out the butter for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt
- Use a reduced-fat sour cream or replace it with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and less fat
- Experiment with reducing the amount of glaze used or omitting it altogether to cut down on added sugar
By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of this lemon loaf that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a treat like this in sensible portions can be part of a balanced, healthy diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Glazed Lemon Loaf
The glazed lemon loaf recipe is a delightful combination of zesty lemon flavor and moist, tender texture. The balance of sweetness and tanginess in the glaze complements the richness of the loaf, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The use of sour cream adds a subtle tang and ensures a moist crumb, while the lemon zest and juice provide a refreshing citrus aroma. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for home bakers, and the end result is a beautiful, golden loaf with a glossy, tangy glaze. It's a perfect treat for any occasion, and sure to brighten up any dessert table.
Enhance Your Glazed Lemon Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Glazed Lemon Loaf Recipe
Ideal Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Glazed Lemon Loaf
Why trust this Glazed Lemon Bread Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful lemon loaf that's moist, tangy, and bursting with citrus flavor. The use of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures a bright and zesty taste, while the addition of sour cream creates a tender crumb. The glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice adds a sweet and tangy finish. Trust this recipe for a delectable treat that's perfect for any occasion.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Bread Pudding with Lemon Sauce Recipe
Lemon Glazed Easter Bread Recipe
Lemon Meringue Pie S’mores Recipe
Lemon Pepper Croutons Recipe
Lemon Zucchini Bread Recipe
Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Recipe
Amazing Lemon Scones Recipe
Lemon Poppy Seed Easter Bread Recipe
Best Bread Oil Recipe
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
