How to Make a Perfect Lemon Loaf Recipe
Are you tired of lemon cakes that are dry and lack the vibrant flavor you crave? Many lemon loaf recipes fall short in texture and taste, leaving you disappointed with bland results.
Imagine slicing into a loaf that promises a burst of fresh lemon with each bite, only to find a crumbly, flavorless disappointment. This common issue can turn a potential favorite treat into a missed opportunity for enjoyment.
Our lemon loaf recipe delivers a perfectly moist and zesty cake, blending rich lemon flavor with a tender crumb. Ideal for afternoon tea or a special treat, this recipe ensures that every slice is as delightful as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 210 grams (1¾ cups) all-purpose flour
- 14 grams (2 tablespoons) cornstarch (corn flour)
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 120 grams (½ cup) warm milk
- 42 grams (3 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
- 170 grams (¾ cup) room temperature unsalted butter
- 26 grams (2 tablespoons) unflavored vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
- 200 grams (1 cup) white granulated sugar
- 1½ tablespoons lemon zest (from about 1½ medium lemons)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
Lemon Syrup
- 50 grams (¼ cup) white granulated sugar
- 55 grams (¼ cup) fresh lemon juice
Lemon Glaze
- 125 grams (1 cup) icing sugar (powdered or confectioner’s sugar)
- 21 grams (1½ tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) with convection mode. Line an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf tin with baking paper. If the tin is smaller, you may have extra batter; consider using it to make muffins. Lightly grease the tin with homemade cake release to help the paper adhere.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together 210 grams of all-purpose flour, 14 grams of cornstarch, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well and set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine 120 grams of warm milk with 42 grams of lemon juice. Stir and set aside; the mixture will curdle slightly.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together 170 grams of unsalted butter, 26 grams of vegetable oil, 200 grams of granulated sugar, and 1½ tablespoons of lemon zest using a mixer on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
5. Incorporate Eggs
Add 3 eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Ensure eggs are at room temperature before adding.
6. Combine Mixtures
Add half of the milk-lemon mixture to the creamed butter and mix until combined. The batter may look slightly curdled, which is normal.
Fold in half of the sifted dry ingredients until just combined. Then add the remaining milk-lemon mixture, folding until combined. Finally, fold in the remaining dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and free of large lumps.
7. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top. Tap the tin lightly on the counter to remove large air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Prepare Lemon Syrup
While the loaf is baking, prepare the lemon syrup. Heat 50 grams of sugar and 55 grams of lemon juice in a saucepan until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
9. Cool and Coat with Syrup
Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. Remove from the tin and place on a tray. Brush the warm loaf with the lemon syrup, covering all sides and the top. Let the syrup soak in completely.
10. Make Lemon Glaze
For the glaze, mix 125 grams of icing sugar with 21 grams of lemon juice until smooth. Spread the glaze over the cooled loaf, allowing it to drip down the edges. Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
Serving
This lemon loaf is best enjoyed once completely cooled. It pairs perfectly with afternoon tea and makes for a delightful sweet treat.
Feel free to leave a review on the blog if you try this recipe. Your feedback is appreciated!
Conclusion
The lemon loaf is a delightful and versatile treat that effortlessly combines the bright, refreshing flavors of lemon with a soft, moist texture. Its simplicity makes it accessible for novice bakers, while its tangy sweetness and elegant glaze elevate it to a level of sophistication suitable for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or served as a charming dessert for gatherings, this lemon loaf is sure to impress. With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, it stands out as a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a touch of citrus delight to their baking repertoire.
