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To make this lemon loaf cake, you need: - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup granulated sugar - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 3 large eggs, at room temperature - ½ cup whole milk - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 2 medium lemons - 2 teaspoons baking powder - ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract For extra flavor, consider these additions: - ½ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) - ½ cup dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins) - A pinch of poppy seeds for texture You can swap ingredients if needed: - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. - If you're out of whole milk, any milk will work, like almond or oat milk. - For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). These simple swaps keep the cake delicious while meeting your dietary needs. For the full recipe, check the main section. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your cake bake evenly. Next, grab a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to take the cake out later. In a large mixing bowl, add ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend them together. Mix for about 3-4 minutes until it looks light and fluffy. This fluffy mix is the base for your loaf. It adds great texture and flavor. Now, add 3 large eggs to the butter and sugar mix. Add them one by one. Make sure to mix well after each egg. This keeps the mixture airy. Next, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and the zest of 2 medium lemons. Stir until everything blends together well. The lemon zest gives your cake a fresh, bright taste. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have a great base for your Easy Lemon Loaf Cake. For the full list of steps, check the Full Recipe. To make a great lemon loaf cake, follow these simple tips: - Use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter mix better. - Measure flour correctly. Spoon it into the cup, then level it off. - Don’t open the oven door. This can cause the loaf to sink. - Check doneness carefully. Use a toothpick to test the center. Here are some mistakes to avoid: - Overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined to keep it light. - Not zesting enough. Use fresh zest for the best flavor. - Skipping the glaze. The glaze adds a tasty finish you won’t want to miss. Let’s make your loaf look great when you serve it: - Slice it evenly. Aim for about 1-inch thick slices for serving. - Garnish with lemon. Add lemon slices and mint for a fresh look. - Serve with tea. A nice cup of tea pairs well with this cake. For the full details on making this delicious treat, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can switch up the flavor by using other citrus fruits. Try orange, lime, or grapefruit. Replace the lemon juice with juice from your chosen fruit. Use the zest for an extra pop. This gives your cake a fun twist while keeping it fresh and bright. Adding berries or nuts can change the taste and texture of your lemon loaf. Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries blend well with lemon. For nuts, walnuts or almonds add crunch. Fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan. This makes each bite exciting and adds color. To make a lemon blueberry loaf, combine both flavors. Use the full recipe, and gently fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries. This will give your loaf a sweet and tangy twist. The blueberries burst while baking, creating a delightful treat. Plus, the vibrant color will make your cake even more appealing! To keep your lemon loaf cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Use an airtight container for extra protection. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, place it in the fridge. Just remember, chilling can change the texture a bit, making it denser. You can freeze lemon loaf cake for later enjoyment. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. Label the package with the date. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. To warm up your lemon loaf cake, slice it into pieces. Place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them for about 15 to 20 seconds. This keeps the cake soft and moist. If you prefer, you can also reheat it in an oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 to 10 minutes. Enjoy every bite of your zesty treat! For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections. Your lemon loaf cake is done when a toothpick comes out clean. Insert it into the center of the loaf. If it has a few moist crumbs, that’s okay. This means the cake is still soft and moist. Baking usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. You want a golden top and a springy feel when you gently press it. Yes, you can use low-fat milk. It will still work well in this recipe. The cake may be slightly less rich, but it will still taste great. Just make sure to measure it correctly. Milk adds moisture and helps the cake rise. If you want a creamier texture, I recommend sticking with whole milk. You can use applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg substitute. Use ¼ cup for each egg. These options add moisture and sweetness. You can also use flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, then let it sit for a few minutes. This mixture acts like an egg in baking. Experiment and see which you like best! Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum in it. This helps with the loaf’s texture and rise. Follow the other steps the same way. You’ll have a delicious gluten-free lemon loaf cake that everyone can enjoy! We explored the key ingredients and steps to make a great lemon loaf cake. Remember to prep properly and avoid common baking mistakes. I shared tips on serving and storing your loaf for the best taste. You can also try fun variations to suit your taste buds. Baking can be simple and enjoyable with this guide. Now, gather your ingredients and start creating your delicious lemon loaf today!

Easy Lemon Loaf Cake

Indulge in this Zesty Lemon Loaf Delight that will brighten your day! With its fluffy texture and refreshing lemon flavor, this easy recipe is perfect for any occasion. Just mix simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and fresh lemon juice for a treat everyone will love. Bake it to perfection, top it with a sweet lemon glaze, and watch it disappear. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your baking game today!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3 large eggs, at room temperature

½ cup whole milk

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Zest of 2 medium lemons

2 teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.

    Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a lovely base for your loaf.

      Incorporate Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs one by one, ensuring to mix well after each addition. This helps maintain the airy texture. Then, add in the vanilla extract and lemon zest and stir until everything is well incorporated.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfect.

          Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan using a spatula to smooth the top evenly, ensuring that it is well distributed for even baking.

            Bake: Place the loaf in your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

              Make Lemon Glaze: While your loaf is baking, prepare a zesty lemon glaze by combining 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

                Cool and Glaze: Once the loaf is done baking, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack, then generously drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm loaf to let it soak in, adding an extra burst of flavor.

                  Slice and Serve: Allow the loaf to cool completely on the wire rack before slicing it into 10 delightful pieces.

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins | Servings: 10 slices

                      - Presentation Tips: For a stunning finish, serve the slices on a decorative platter. Garnish with thin lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint to add a vibrant and fresh touch that will catch the eye. Enjoy your zesty creation!