This Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze is a moist, buttery dessert bursting with citrus flavor. With a tender crumb and a sweet-tart glaze, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. It’s an easy recipe for lemon lovers, with a flavor that rivals the famous Starbucks lemon loaf!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup buttermilk

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1 tablespoon lemon juice (more if needed)
1 tablespoon milk

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (or using an electric mixer), beat butter and sugar together until fluffy, about 4–6 minutes.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice, beating until combined.

5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:

With the mixer on low, alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

6. Bake:

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

7. Prepare the Glaze:

While the loaf cools, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional lemon juice or sugar if needed.

8. Glaze the Loaf:

Remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled loaf.

9. Serve:

Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 300
Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Sugar: 33 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Sodium: 145 mg
Vitamin C: 7 mg

This Lemon Loaf Cake is a vibrant, citrusy treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a delightful addition to any occasion!

The Secret to the Perfect Lemon Loaf

The magic of this lemon loaf lies in its carefully balanced ingredients and techniques. Every component plays a vital role in creating its signature flavor and texture:

Lemon Zest and Juice: The zest and juice of fresh lemons infuse the batter with a bright, natural citrus flavor that permeates every bite. Using fresh lemons is key to achieving that vibrant taste.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the cake’s richness while keeping it tender and light.
Butter and Sugar: Creaming butter and sugar creates an airy, fluffy base that ensures the loaf is moist and has a delicate crumb.

The addition of a sweet-tart glaze enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a burst of lemony goodness that complements the cake perfectly.

The Role of Lemon in Baking

Lemon is a star ingredient in desserts for good reason. Its natural acidity not only balances the sweetness but also enhances other flavors in the recipe. In this lemon loaf, the citrus notes are front and center, providing a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness of the cake.

The versatility of lemon makes it a favorite in baking. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of flavors, from berries and vanilla to poppy seeds and almond. Its bright color and aroma also make lemon desserts visually appealing and delightful to serve.

What Makes This Lemon Loaf Cake Unique

While many lemon cakes rely on artificial flavorings, this recipe uses only fresh lemon juice and zest to achieve its bold, authentic flavor. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that complements the citrus, while the glaze elevates the loaf with a sweet and zesty finish.

This recipe is designed for simplicity and success. With easy-to-follow steps and common pantry ingredients, it’s a dessert that anyone can make, regardless of baking experience.

Why Lemon Loaf Cake is a Crowd-Pleaser

Lemon Loaf Cake appeals to a wide audience for several reasons:

Universal Flavor: The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes it universally loved, even by those who aren’t typically fans of overly sweet desserts.
Versatility: Whether served at brunch, as a dessert, or alongside a cup of tea, this cake fits seamlessly into any occasion.
Aesthetics: The golden loaf, drizzled with glossy lemon glaze, is as visually enticing as it is delicious. Its elegant presentation makes it a popular choice for gatherings.

Customizing Your Lemon Loaf Cake

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to customize the cake to suit your preferences or elevate it for special occasions:

Add Poppy Seeds: For a lemon-poppy seed variation, fold in 2–3 tablespoons of poppy seeds into the batter before baking.
Incorporate Berries: Add fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the batter for bursts of fruity sweetness.
Experiment with Extracts: Enhance the lemon flavor by adding a teaspoon of pure lemon extract alongside the vanilla.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the loaf suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health Benefits of Lemon Desserts

While this lemon loaf is a treat, it does offer some surprising benefits:

Vitamin C: The lemon juice and zest provide a dose of vitamin C, supporting immune health.
Antioxidants: Lemons contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body.
Mood Booster: The bright, citrusy aroma of lemon is known to uplift the mood and reduce stress.

For a slightly lighter version, you can reduce the sugar in the batter or substitute the glaze with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Loaf Cake

Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest are non-negotiable for achieving the vibrant flavor that defines this cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid a dense texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.
Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let the Cake Cool: Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting into the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Loaf Cake is versatile enough to be served in various ways:

Classic: Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a simple yet satisfying treat.
Dessert: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dessert.
Gift: Wrap the loaf in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Why Homemade Lemon Loaf Cake is Better

Making this lemon loaf cake from scratch not only ensures freshness but also allows you to control the quality of the ingredients. Store-bought versions often contain artificial flavors and preservatives, whereas homemade versions deliver a purer, more authentic taste.

The process of baking this cake is also a rewarding experience. From creaming the butter and sugar to whisking the lemon glaze, every step contributes to a finished product that feels personal and special.

Conclusion

This Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients. Its moist texture, bright citrus flavor, and elegant appearance make it a dessert that’s as delicious as it is versatile. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a show-stopping dessert, this loaf is sure to impress.

By following the tips and variations above, you can tailor this recipe to suit your preferences and create a loaf that’s uniquely yours. Try it today and experience the joy of baking a classic dessert that rivals the best bakery offerings!

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