Lemon Bread

This lemon bread is a delightful treat bursting with bright citrus flavor and a tender, moist crumb. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, it’s perfect as a breakfast, snack, or dessert. Whether paired with coffee in the morning or enjoyed on its own, this zesty loaf is guaranteed to brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with refreshing lemon flavor.
• Easy to make with pantry staples.
• Perfectly moist with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Versatile—enjoy as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat.
• Freezes well for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Vegetable oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. Let the glaze set before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8-10 slices.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Blueberry Lemon Bread: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries before baking.
• Poppy Seed Lemon Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour.
• Extra Tangy Glaze: Add a bit of lemon zest to the glaze for an extra pop of flavor.
• Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week for extended freshness.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

Why is my lemon bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can result in a dense texture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan thoroughly or use parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use two loaf pans. Adjust baking time as needed.

Is this lemon bread very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, with a balance of tartness from the lemon. You can adjust the glaze sweetness to your preference.

Can I make this bread vegan?

Yes, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), and use plant-based milk and oil.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or a neutral-flavored oil like canola.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.

Does the glaze have to be added?

No, the bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze enhances the lemon flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon bread is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, making it a delightful treat for any time of day. With its soft texture, refreshing flavor, and versatile variations, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Serve it to guests or enjoy a slice with your morning coffee—it’s a surefire way to brighten your day!

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