Indulge in Citrus Bliss: Lemon Loaf Recipe from Half Baked Harvest

Half Baked Harvest brings you a tantalizing lemon loaf recipe that's bursting with bright, zesty flavors and irresistible sweetness. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a midday pick-me-up, this lemon loaf is a delightful treat for any occasion. In this guide, we'll delve into the details of this mouthwatering recipe from Half Baked Harvest, ensuring you're equipped to recreate this citrus-infused masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Discover the components that make this lemon loaf truly delectable:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream

lemon loaf half baked harvest

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your own lemon loaf:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it's well-coated to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Glaze: Allow the lemon loaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and Greek yogurt or sour cream are at room temperature for optimal texture and consistency.
• Zesting Citrus: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest your lemons, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
• Glazing Technique: Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more or less milk or cream until you reach your desired thickness.

lemon loaf half baked harvest

Conclusion

With this lemon loaf recipe from Half Baked Harvest, you'll delight in every moist, lemony bite. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or after-dinner indulgence, this citrus-infused loaf is sure to brighten your day. Follow the simple instructions, add your own twist, and savor the sunny flavors of this irresistible lemon delight.