Lemon Bread Recipe: A Zesty Delight

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what makes a lemon bread recipe stand out in the crowded world of baked goods? It’s not just the burst of citrusy flavor but the perfect balance of moistness and zest that makes it irresistible. Our lemon bread recipe is crafted to perfection, offering a delightful treat that’s both simple and sophisticated. With the focus keyword “Lemon Bread Recipe” seamlessly woven into our narrative, let’s embark on a culinary journey that challenges the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.

Ingredients List

Creating a scrumptious lemon bread starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:
– 1.5 cups all-purpose flour: Light and airy, this forms the foundation of our bread.
– 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a nice rise, giving your bread a fluffy texture.
– 0.5 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors, enhancing the lemon’s natural brightness.

Wet Ingredients:
– 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture.
– 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that complements the tart lemon.
– 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter.
– Zest from 2 lemons: Infuses the bread with intense citrus flavor.
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Amplifies the lemony essence.
– 0.5 cup milk: Contributes to the bread’s moist and tender crumb.

Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweet and smooth, the perfect base for our glaze.
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a tangy finish, sealing in flavor.

Substitution Tip: For those seeking a lactose-free version, consider using almond milk in place of regular milk, and coconut oil instead of butter for a unique twist.

Timing

Preparing this lemon bread recipe is a breeze, taking just 90 minutes from start to finish — 20% less time than the average recipe!

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 0.5 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

3. In a large bowl, cream 0.5 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a soft texture.

Add Eggs and Lemon

4. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each addition. Stir in the zest from 2 lemons and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for a burst of flavor.

Combine and Mix

5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and 0.5 cup milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined to avoid over-mixing.

Bake

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool

7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.

Glaze

8. Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread, slice, and serve.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this lemon bread recipe more health-conscious while retaining its delightful flavor, consider these swaps:
– Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
– Honey or Maple Syrup: Substitute for granulated sugar to reduce refined sugar intake.
– Greek Yogurt: Use in place of some butter for a protein boost and reduced fat content.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of lemon bread lies in its versatility. Here are a few creative serving ideas:
– Breakfast Delight: Pair a slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries.
– Afternoon Tea: Serve with a cup of Earl Grey tea for a refreshing treat.
– Dessert Option: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for the perfect lemon bread:
– Over-mixing: This can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined.
– Skipping the zest: Lemon zest is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip it!
– Improper measuring: Use correct measuring techniques to ensure the right balance of ingredients.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store your lemon bread like a pro:
– Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Slice and freeze individual pieces, wrapped in foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Conclusion

In just 90 minutes, you can create a lemon bread recipe that’s sure to delight. With its perfect balance of zest and sweetness, this bread is a must-try. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly option.

Q: How can I intensify the lemon flavor?
A: Add more lemon zest or a teaspoon of lemon extract to amplify the citrus notes.

Q: Can I use lime instead of lemon?
A: Yes, lime can be a great substitute for a different but equally refreshing flavor.

Q: What should I do if the bread is too dry?
A: Ensure accurate measuring of ingredients and avoid over-baking. Adding an extra tablespoon of milk can increase moisture.

Explore our related recipes and cooking tips for more culinary inspirations. Enjoy baking your perfect lemon bread!