Zesty Lemon Loaf
Zesty Lemon Loaf is a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your table. This cake is moist and flavorful, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With its tangy lemon flavor and sweet notes, every bite offers a refreshing taste that can brighten any day.
Why Make This Recipe
This Zesty Lemon Loaf is not just delicious; it is also easy to make. You’ll find that it uses simple ingredients that are often in your pantry. This loaf is a great way to use up lemons and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon at home, it is sure to impress.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Loaf
Making Zesty Lemon Loaf is straightforward and fun. Just follow these steps, and you will have a delicious loaf ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until smooth.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetable oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Zesty Lemon Loaf
Zesty Lemon Loaf can be served on its own or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also slice it and add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra treat.
How to Store Zesty Lemon Loaf
To store your Zesty Lemon Loaf, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. It also freezes well, so you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw it before serving.
Tips to Make Zesty Lemon Loaf
- Make sure to measure the flour correctly. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for best results.
- Use fresh lemons for the juice and zest to get the brightest flavor.
- Don’t over-mix the batter. Mix until just combined for a light and airy loaf.
Variation
For a fun twist, you can add poppy seeds to the batter for a Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf. You could also try glazing the loaf with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but this may change the texture slightly.
Q: Can I add other flavors?
A: Absolutely! You can add a teaspoon of almond extract or replace lemon juice with orange juice for a different flavor.
Q: How can I tell if the loaf is done?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the loaf is done. If there is batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes.
Enjoy your baking adventure with this Zesty Lemon Loaf!
Print
Zesty Lemon Loaf
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Zesty Lemon Loaf that brings a burst of sunshine to your table, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until smooth.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetable oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: lemon loaf, dessert, cake, baking, citrus