Irresistible Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake Recipe: Easy & Delicious
There’s something so nostalgic about the simple pleasures of baking. I can still remember the sweet, citrusy aroma that would waft through my grandmother’s kitchen every Saturday morning. She had this magical recipe for a lemon loaf that she would serve with tea as we chatted about life and family. In those moments, surrounded by warmth and love, everything felt just right. Today, I want to share with you my version of that beautiful creation — my Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake. It’s light, bright, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just need a little pick-me-up. Let’s get that kitchen bustling with some cheerful scents!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and straightforward, ideal for any baker!
- Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).
- Bright and refreshing flavors—like a sunny day in cake form.
- Versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% work best)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (the zest really amps up the lemony flavor!)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (adjust for your desired sweetness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s bring it all together! Follow these easy steps:
- Preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. You can use butter or non-stick spray—whatever you have on hand!
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps incorporate everything evenly.
- Cream the butter and sugar. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to look pale and airy—this is essential for a light cake!
- Incorporate the eggs. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This adds structure and moisture.
- Add the wet ingredients. Pour in the milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined, but don’t worry about beating it too much.
- Fold in the dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined—this is key to a tender loaf! (Watch out: overmixing could leave you with a dense cake.)
- Pour and smooth. Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Give it a little tap to release any air bubbles!
- Bake it! Pop your loaf into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell like a sunny lemon grove!
- Cool completely. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Now resist the urge to slice it just yet!
- Make the glaze. While the loaf is cooling, mix the powdered sugar and enough lemon juice to make a smooth glaze. You want it thick yet pourable. Adjust the lemon juice to balance sweetness to your liking.
- Glaze the cake. Once your loaf has cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips & Variations
Let’s get creative! Here are some delightful twists you might love:
- Infuse with herbs: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an herby twist!
- Mixed fruits: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a sweet burst of flavor.
- Nutty texture: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and richness.
- Substitutions: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake is perfect as is, but let’s make it a bit more special! Here are some ideas for serving:
- Pair it with a cup of herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon break.
- Enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a charming dessert.
- Slice it up for breakfast alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea.
It’s such a versatile treat that can elevate any moment into something special. Just picture it: a sunny brunch table adorned with this lovely loaf and bright flowers. What a scene!
Storage Tips
Want to keep your lovely loaf fresh for longer? Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about a week. Make sure it’s totally cooled before wrapping!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? Slice the loaf and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it at room temperature or warm it up a bit in the microwave.
- Reheating: If you’re heating it up, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will do the trick, or pop it in a toaster oven for a few minutes to bring back its freshly baked goodness.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just remember, fresh lemons will give you that zesty brightness that’s hard to replicate!
Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
This can happen if the batter is too wet or if it’s not baked long enough. Make sure you measure accurately and check your cake with a toothpick before taking it out. Each oven can be a bit different, so watch for that golden-brown top!
How can I make the cake even more lemony?
If you’re a lemon lover like me, you can increase the lemon zest to 2 tablespoons or add a teaspoon of lemon extract. Just be careful not to overpower it. Balance is key!
Can I leave out the glaze?
Absolutely! The cake is delightful on its own too. If you prefer, you can just sprinkle it with powdered sugar or serve it plain. It’s your cake, after all!
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, definitely! The steps are simple and straightforward, making it a great recipe for anyone getting started in baking. Plus, the results are deliciously rewarding!
Conclusion
I hope you loved making (and enjoying!) this Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake as much as I do. There’s something so satisfying about creating a delicious treat in the comfort of your kitchen. It’s perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat on a lazy afternoon. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Please leave a comment below or share your photos. Happy baking!
Irresistible Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake Recipe: Easy & Delicious
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Bake a mouthwatering lemon glazed loaf cake with this easy recipe. Perfect for dessert lovers craving zesty flavor and a soft texture! 149 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A light and refreshing Lemon Glazed Loaf Cake that embodies nostalgic flavors and is perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 19g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: lemon cake, loaf cake, dessert recipe, baking, easy recipes