Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze

Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze

Ingredients:

• For the Lemon Loaf Cake:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Lemon Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings:
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake:
   • Allow the lemon loaf cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add more lemon juice if the glaze is too thick. If desired, add lemon zest for extra flavor.
9. Glaze the Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Slice and serve your lemon loaf cake. Enjoy the bright and tangy flavors!

This lemon loaf cake is perfect for a refreshing dessert or a delightful afternoon treat. The combination of the moist cake and the zesty glaze makes it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!