Description
This irresistible lemon loaf is a moist, bakery-style treat bursting with fresh citrus flavor. With a bright lemon glaze and tender crumb, it’s a sweet, tangy comfort dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Loaf:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice, lemon zest, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes clean.
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Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Adjust thickness as desired.
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Drizzle glaze over the cooled loaf. Let set before slicing.
Notes
For extra citrus flavor, increase lemon zest to 2 tablespoons.
Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter.
Store wrapped at room temperature for 3–5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Add blueberries or poppy seeds for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American