Description
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this Lemon Loaf Bread is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. With fresh lemon zest, real lemon juice, and a smooth citrus glaze, this easy recipe delivers bakery-style flavor right from your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, a healthy snack option, simple dinner ideas for dessert, or just reliable food ideas for gatherings, this homemade lemon loaf fits the moment beautifully. Soft, buttery, and topped with a glossy glaze, it’s a versatile treat for any time of day.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream until smooth.
7. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice together to make glaze.
12. Pour glaze over cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
Brush warm loaf with lemon syrup for extra flavor intensity.
Allow loaf to cool completely before glazing to achieve a thick, defined drizzle.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg