Are you ready to bake the Best Ever Lemon Loaf? This recipe promises a moist, citrusy cake that's just as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Using everyday ingredients, this loaf is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven with our step-by-step instructions.
The popularity of lemon loaf has soared in part due to the infamous Starbucks Lemon Loaf. Starbucks' version is known for its thick, sweet icing and its dense, moist texture, making it a favorite among coffee shop patrons. It's often enjoyed as a perfect pairing with coffee or tea. Our recipe aims to capture a similar taste and texture, allowing you to recreate this experience at home.
Why we love this recipe:
- Quick to Prepare: Ideal for busy parents needing a straightforward, delicious dessert.
- Healthy Twist: We use ingredients like Greek yogurt and avocado oil for a healthier take.
- Impress Your Guests: Its bright flavor and beautiful presentation will wow any dinner party.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
If you like this dessert recipe, you may also love our Lemon Ricotta Cake with Fresh Raspberries or our family favorite Peanut Butter Cookies.
Jump to:
- What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Instructions
- What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
- How Should You Store This?
- What Are Some Expert Tips?
- More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
- Lemon Loaf Presentation for Entertaining
- Related
- FAQ
- 📖 Recipe
- Important Food Safety Tips
- 💬 Share Your Thoughts
What Ingredients Will You Need?
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the perfect crumb.
- Baking Powder & Soda: Helps the loaf rise.
- Avocado Oil: A heart-healthy oil that keeps the loaf moist.
- Lemon Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and boosts the lemony flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: For that irreplaceable fresh lemon taste.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make the Best Ever Lemon Loaf Recipe
Step One: Prep Your Ingredients
Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour your loaf pan.
Step Two: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
In one bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients. In another, mix the wet ingredients including the zest-infused sugar.
Step Three: Combine and Bake
Combine the dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes.
Step Four: Glaze and Serve
While the loaf bakes, prepare your lemon syrup and icing. Once baked, brush with syrup, cool, and drizzle with icing.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Canola Oil: Can be replaced with another neutral baking oil like canola oil or vegetable oil.
- Lemon Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt with a bit of extra lemon extract works great too.
- Sugar: Want it less sweet? Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute that is suited for baking.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Add-ins: Add poppy seeds for a crunchy texture and visual appeal.
- Flavor: Add fresh blueberries for extra flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Make mini loaves or muffins that are perfect for little hands.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Zester
- Stand Mixer (optional)
How Should You Store This?
Store your lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
Thoroughly massage the lemon zest into the sugar to release the oils.
Don’t overmix the batter; just mix until the ingredients are combined.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Lemon?
- Use them in this Greek Lemon Chicken recipe.
- Whip up our Arugula Side Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
- Try these Simple Bay Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Serve with freshly brewed tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Southern Banana Pudding
- Lemon Bars
- Lemon Cheesecake Jars
- Easy Apple Loaf Cake with Cinnamon Crumb Topping
Lemon Loaf Presentation for Entertaining
A few ways to make your lemon loaf look fancy:
- Mini Loaves or Muffins: Bake the batter in mini loaf or muffin pans instead of a single large one. Mini loaves are perfect for personal servings, making them great for guests.
- Lemon Glaze Drizzle: Use a spoon or a small piping bag to drizzle the glaze in a zigzag or spiral pattern over the top of the loaf.
- Layered Lemon Loaf Cake: Slice the loaf horizontally and spread a thin layer of lemon curd or cream cheese frosting between each layer. Stack them back together for an elegant, layered cake look.
- Lemon Slice Garnish: Thinly slice a lemon and slightly dry the slices in the oven to create beautiful, dried lemon wheel garnishes. Place them along the top of the loaf for a natural and rustic decoration.
Related
More dessert recipes to love:
FAQ
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make two loaves. Just be sure to use larger loaf pans or bake them separately if you only have one pan.
Yes, you can freeze the lemon loaf for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges to create different flavor variations of this loaf.
To prevent your lemon loaf from sinking, make sure not to overmix the batter. Also, leave the oven door closed during baking.
📖 Recipe
The BEST Ever Lemon Loaf Recipe
Equipment
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Zester
- Stand Mixer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup avocado oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- ¾ cup lemon yogurt Noosa or Chobani
- 2 lemons, zest of
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon extract
Syrup
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Icing
- ½ cup confectioners' sugar
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease/flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Massage zest into sugar.
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat avocado oil, zest-infused sugar, eggs, yogurt, lemon juice, and extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until blended. Pour into pan.
- Bake 50-55 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
- While the loaf is baking, simmer 3 tablespoon lemon juice with 2 tablespoon sugar until dissolved.
- Remove loaf from the oven. Brush hot loaf with syrup. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then on rack.
- Whisk ½ cup confectioners' sugar with ½ tablespoon lemon juice. Drizzle over cooled loaf.
- Once icing sets, slice and serve.
Notes
- Avocado Oil: Can be replaced with another neutral baking oil.
- Lemon Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt with a bit of extra lemon extract works great too.
- Sugar: Want it less sweet? Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute that is suited for baking.
Nutrition
Imagine bringing this lemony goodness to your next get-together with friends. Everyone will be asking you for the recipe! It's time to get your baking gear out, give this recipe a try, and see how awesome it turns out! Don't forget to share how it went, or to check out our other delicious recipes!
Important Food Safety Tips
Ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly stored before baking to avoid any health issues.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
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