Glazed Lemon Loaf

Glazed Lemon Loaf is a moist and tangy cake-like bread that is infused with bright lemon flavor. It's a classic treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet indulgence with a cup of tea.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Loaf:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or beat by hand.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
8. While the lemon loaf is baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
9. Once the lemon loaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet or parchment paper.
10. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm loaf, allowing it to soak into the cake. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
11. Serve the Glazed Lemon Loaf at room temperature. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

The Glazed Lemon Loaf is a delightful combination of zesty lemon flavors and a tender, moist texture. The tangy glaze adds a sweet and tart finish to the loaf, making it a refreshing and satisfying treat. Enjoy a slice of this delicious lemony goodness!