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Lemon Loaf with Lemon Glaze Recipe

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3.8 from 4 reviews

This Lemon Loaf recipe is a moist and flavorful cake infused with fresh lemon zest and extracts, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a light dessert, this loaf combines a tender crumb with bright citrus notes and a silky, sweet glaze.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Lemon Loaf

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup neutral oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 1-pound (8x4-inch) loaf pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper extending up the sides for easy loaf removal.
  2. Mix sugar and lemon zest: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub them together with your fingers to release the lemon oils and fragrance.
  3. Beat eggs: Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and beat with an electric mixer or whisk until pale and slightly fluffy, about 1 minute.
  4. Add wet ingredients and leaveners: Incorporate the neutral oil, vanilla extract, lemon extract, sour cream, turmeric (if using), kosher salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk until the batter is smooth.
  5. Add flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and beat until just combined. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the bowl ensuring there is no flour left unmixed.
  6. Bake the loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
  7. Prepare the glaze: While the loaf cools, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and lemon juice in a medium bowl until thick and smooth.
  8. Glaze the loaf: Once the loaf is completely cooled, pour the glaze over the top and spread evenly with the back of a spoon. Let it set, optionally refrigerate for about 10 minutes to speed the process.
  9. Serve: Slice the loaf and enjoy your fresh lemon-flavored treat!

Notes

  • Using parchment paper with sides that extend above the pan helps easily lift the loaf out after baking.
  • Ground turmeric is optional and adds a subtle color enhancement and a hint of earthiness.
  • Neutral oil could be vegetable, canola, or light olive oil for best results.
  • Lemon extracts enhance the lemon flavor beyond the zest, but can be substituted with extra lemon juice if desired.
  • Ensure the loaf is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
  • Chilling the glazed loaf helps set the glaze faster and makes slicing easier.