Lemon Loaf Bread

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Bright, zesty, and incredibly moist, Lemon Loaf Bread is a sunshine-filled treat perfect for any time of day. With its soft crumb and punchy citrus flavor, this loaf is the ultimate balance of sweetness and tartness, finished with a glossy lemon glaze that seeps into every slice. It’s the kind of comforting bake that feels both refreshing and indulgent—ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon snack with tea.

This lemon loaf has the magical ability to please everyone at the table. The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and rich buttery texture makes each bite taste like a burst of spring. It’s not just a loaf—it’s a mood lifter, a crowd-pleaser, and an easy recipe that never fails to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Loaf Bread

This recipe is a keeper for several reasons: it’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bakery-style results at home. It stays moist for days, thanks to the yogurt (or sour cream) in the batter, and the lemon glaze soaks into the loaf to amplify its flavor even more. Whether you need something for a brunch spread, holiday treat table, or weekday snack, this lemon loaf fits beautifully.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best texture and flavor from your Lemon Loaf Bread, having the right tools on hand makes a difference:

• Loaf Pan (9×5 inch): Essential for shaping the bread and ensuring even baking.
• Microplane or Zester: To finely zest the lemon without the bitter pith.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Helps create a light and airy batter, crucial for the loaf’s tender crumb.
• Mixing Bowls (2 sizes): One for wet ingredients, one for dry—this avoids overmixing.
• Whisk & Spatula: For gently combining ingredients and scraping down the bowl to avoid waste.

Each tool plays a part in delivering that perfect rise, crumb, and glaze finish.

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Preparation Tips

Always start with room temperature ingredients—this helps the batter mix more evenly and rise better in the oven. Zest the lemons before juicing them, as it’s easier that way. Don’t overmix the batter once the dry and wet ingredients are combined; this keeps the loaf soft instead of tough. Make sure to test for doneness with a toothpick (it should come out clean), and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Pour the glaze while the loaf is still slightly warm so it soaks in beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Lemon Loaf Bread

For the Lemon Loaf:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80g) Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired thickness)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your loaf doesn’t stick and comes out with a clean edge.

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Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents for a uniform rise.

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Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets in the batter, making the loaf tender.

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Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. The lemon zest is where most of the bright flavor comes from, so don’t skip it.

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Step 5: Incorporate Yogurt and Milk

Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and milk to the mixture and beat until smooth. This combo keeps the loaf moist and rich without being heavy.

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Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined—do not overmix. Overmixing develops gluten and can make the loaf dense.

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Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the center rack of the oven for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil around the 35-minute mark.

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Step 8: Cool the Loaf

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the structure set.

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Step 9: Make and Add the Glaze

While the loaf is cooling, whisk the powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more juice or sugar as needed. Drizzle over the slightly warm loaf so it seeps into the surface and forms a tangy-sweet glaze.

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Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once the glaze has set, slice and serve. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, moist, and tender—a true lemon lover’s dream.

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Notes

Using full-fat yogurt or sour cream adds richness and moisture that really elevates the loaf’s texture. For a more intense lemon flavor, you can infuse the sugar with the lemon zest by rubbing them together before mixing. If your lemons are on the smaller side, consider using two to ensure enough zest and juice. Letting the glaze sit for a few minutes before pouring it gives it a smoother finish and prevents it from being too runny. This loaf tastes even better the next day as the lemon flavor deepens overnight.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and butter don’t mix as well and can lead to a lumpy batter.
• Overmixing the batter: This can create a dense, tough loaf instead of a light, tender crumb.
• Underbaking: Make sure a toothpick comes out clean. An underbaked center can collapse as it cools.
• Incorrect glaze timing: Pouring glaze on a hot loaf can make it run off too quickly. Aim for slightly warm.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Always opt for fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—it’s brighter and cleaner.

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Storage Instructions

Once fully cooled, store the Lemon Loaf Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. If glazed, it’s best to add a fresh drizzle after thawing to refresh the texture and flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Slice (based on 10 slices):

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lemon loaf gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Sour cream is a great substitute and gives a similar moist texture and tang.

Can I add poppy seeds to this recipe?

Absolutely. Add 1–2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the dry ingredients for a lemon poppy seed variation.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double it and bake in two separate loaf pans. Avoid overfilling one pan.

Why is my loaf too dense?

Likely due to overmixing or inaccurate flour measurement. Spoon and level your flour to avoid packing too much.

Should I refrigerate the leftovers?

Refrigeration can dry out the loaf. Room temperature storage is best unless you’re freezing it.

What type of lemons are best?

Regular Eureka or Lisbon lemons work great. Meyer lemons can also be used for a sweeter flavor profile.

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Conclusion

This Lemon Loaf Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a bright, citrusy comfort in every slice. With simple pantry ingredients, easy steps, and a luscious glaze, it brings bakery-quality baking right into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing with guests or enjoying it solo with a cup of tea, this loaf is sure to brighten any moment.

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