Storyline Sweets profile image

Lemon Loaf

November 26, 2023 | kate

Embark on a zesty culinary journey with our Lemon Loaf recipe, a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet notes. This recipe is a breeze to make and perfect for those who love a citrus twist in their desserts. Ideal for afternoon teas, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for yourself, this Lemon Loaf promises to be a refreshing addition to your baking repertoire. Let’s get baking and fill your kitchen with the enchanting aroma of lemon!

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Book Pair: A Court of Thorns and Roses

Ingredients

For the loaf…

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 2/3 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

For the icing…

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Loaf without icing

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 350° and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper. 
  2. In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the sugar and zest together with your fingers to release the oils in the zest. 
  3. Pour the melted butter into the sugar mixture and mix until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time until well incorporated. 
  4. Add the lemon juice, sour cream, and milk, stirring until thoroughly mixed.
  5. Mix in the dry ingredients, the flour and baking powder, until no lumps or streaks of flour remain. Be careful to not overmix. 
  6. Pour the lemon batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
  7. Combine all the icing ingredients and whisk until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency. Once the loaf has cooled entirely, pour the icing over it and use a knife to create a smooth layer. As the icing sets, it will naturally become smoother.
  8. To create a stylish garnish, thinly slice a few lemons, pat them dry, and delicately arrange them on top of the loaf. Once the icing has set, slice the loaf and savor every bite!

Inspired by https://bromabakery.com/lemon-loaf-starbucks-copycat/

You should follow us!