Lemon Loaf Cake Recipe
A delightful Lemon Loaf Cake that is moist and flavorful, featuring a zesty lemon glaze. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon snack, this cake combines simple pantry ingredients to create a bright, tangy treat.
- Author: Dana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf cake (about 8 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Lemon Loaf Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for extra flavor)
For the Lemon Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon melted butter (optional for shine)
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Combine batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the lemon icing: In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with lemon juice and melted butter until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- Glaze the cake: Drizzle the lemon icing over the cooled loaf cake. Let it set for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Ensure the melted butter is cooled to prevent cooking the eggs when mixing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and ensure powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.
- Store the lemon loaf cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Keywords: lemon loaf cake, lemon cake with glaze, citrus dessert, easy lemon cake, homemade lemon loaf