Name: Lemon Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487483H48M40S
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 2 lemons; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt; ¼ cup milk; For the glaze (optional):; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; ½ tsp lemon zest

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Lemon Bread is a light, fluffy, and refreshing dessert that’s packed with citrusy goodness. With a tender crumb and a zesty lemon flavor, this bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with a cup of tea. The sweet glaze on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the tart lemon perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy with a fresh lemony flavor.
Soft, moist texture with a golden crust.
Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Great for gifting, sharing, or enjoying as a treat with your morning coffee.
Can be made ahead and stored for several days.

Lemon Bread Recipe

Ingredients

For the bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 2 lemons
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
¼ cup milk

For the glaze (optional):

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp lemon zest

Directions

For the bread:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to incorporate each before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with the sour cream (or yogurt) and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the glaze (optional):

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of the loaf. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf (about 8–10 servings) and takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 55–60 minutes of baking.

Variations

Add blueberries: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Use almond flour: Swap half the all-purpose flour for almond flour for a slightly denser, nutty flavor.
Add poppy seeds: For a more traditional lemon poppy seed flavor, add 1–2 tbsp of poppy seeds to the batter.
Lemon-lavender flavor: Add 1 tsp of dried lavender flowers to the batter for a floral lemon flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover lemon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just slice it before freezing and wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap. Reheat by wrapping the bread in foil and warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice is preferred, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I use a different kind of yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt for the sour cream.

Can I make this recipe without a glaze?

Yes, the glaze is optional. The bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

How do I make sure the bread is moist?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and bake it just until a toothpick comes out clean. Overbaking can cause the bread to dry out.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake the bread in two loaf pans. The baking time might vary, so check for doneness around 55 minutes.

How do I make the bread fluffier?

You can sift the dry ingredients before mixing to help lighten the texture. Additionally, don’t overmix the batter to prevent dense bread.

Conclusion

Lemon Bread is a light, zesty, and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delicate crumb and refreshing citrus flavor, it’s a great dessert or snack to enjoy with coffee or tea. Whether you enjoy it as is or with the optional glaze, it’s sure to be a hit in your kitchen!

Chef MARTHA

Lemon Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients