Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze

This Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze is a bright, zesty treat that’s impossible to resist. It’s soft, tender, and infused with fresh lemon flavor, then topped with a glossy citrus glaze that seeps into every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake will bring a burst of sunshine to your table trust me, you’ll be making it on repeat.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Great for a quick snack, afternoon tea, or a dessert centerpiece.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have at home.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in a single bowl with minimal cleanup.
Customizable: Add poppy seeds, blueberries, or swap citrus fruits for a fun twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its vibrant lemon flavor and soft texture make it universally loved.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze
Here’s the magic of this loaf cake—it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. Let’s break it down:
Lemon Juice & Zest: The key to that tangy, refreshing flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and keeps the loaf moist.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tart lemon.
Eggs: Provide structure and give the cake its soft, tender crumb.
Flour: All-purpose flour creates the perfect sturdy yet soft texture.
Baking Powder: Ensures the loaf rises beautifully.
Milk or Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
Powdered Sugar: For the luscious citrus glaze.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Combine Ingredients: Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice and zest.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk or yogurt, until combined.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: While the cake cools, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice to make the glaze.
Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, slice, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10 slices
Calories per serving: 270

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze

This loaf cake is perfect as is but can also be served with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a more decadent dessert. It’s also lovely alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use fresh lemons for the best flavor bottled juice won’t cut it.
Make sure the loaf is fully cooled before glazing to prevent it from melting.
Double the glaze for extra citrusy sweetness.
Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freeze slices individually for a quick grab-and-go treat.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use other citrus fruits?
   Yes, orange or lime work beautifully in this recipe.
2. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
   Swap butter for plant-based butter and milk for almond or oat milk.
3. Can I add poppy seeds?
   Absolutely, they add a nice crunch and go perfectly with lemon.
4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of milk?
   Yes, it makes the loaf even more moist and flavorful.
5. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
   Yes, just adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes.
6. How do I know when it’s done?
   A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
7. Can I reduce the sugar?
   Yes, but the texture and sweetness will be slightly affected.
8. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
   Yes, store it in the fridge and whisk again before drizzling.
9. Can I freeze the loaf?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
10. Why is my loaf dense?
    You may have overmixed the batter mix just until combined.

CONCLUSION

This Lemon Loaf Cake with Sweet Citrus Glaze is a bright and flavorful treat that’s as simple as it is delicious. With its tangy glaze and soft crumb, it’s the kind of cake you’ll want to bake for every occasion.

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