Description
Bright, buttery, and packed with fresh citrus flavor, this homemade lemon loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The soft and moist texture combined with the smooth lemon glaze creates a bakery-style treat that tastes incredible for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. This easy recipe is ideal for anyone looking for quick breakfast ideas, simple dessert recipes, brunch food ideas, or a comforting homemade baked treat. Whether you enjoy it with coffee in the morning or serve it as a light dessert after dinner, this lemon loaf delivers fresh lemon flavor in every bite. The recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, comes together easily, and stays moist for days, making it one of the best easy baking recipes to keep on hand.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon milk or cream
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. Line with parchment paper if desired.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest.
6. Add the Greek yogurt and mix until smooth and creamy.
7. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
11. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk to create the glaze.
12. Once the loaf has fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and allow it to set before slicing.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor and best aroma.
Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep the loaf soft and tender.
Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing so the glaze sets properly on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg