There’s Magic in Every Slice
Have you ever walked into your kitchen on a slow weekend morning, craving something cozy and citrusy, something that makes the house smell like sunshine? That’s exactly where your Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake fits in. Whether you’re preparing brunch for friends or treating yourself to a golden afternoon snack, this moist, lemony loaf with a sweet, tangy glaze delivers comfort and joy in every bite.
Let’s dive into what makes this cake not just a treat but a baking ritual you’ll want to revisit.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake
A Balance of Sweet and Tart
- The natural brightness from freshly squeezed lemon juice and finely grated zest adds the perfect citrusy lift.
- The glaze, made from powdered sugar and more lemon juice, creates a delightful sweet-and-sour finish.
Moist Texture That Lasts
- Yogurt and vegetable oil work wonders for creating a soft, tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
Simple Ingredients, Big Results
- You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.
- It’s a beginner-friendly recipe with professional-level taste and presentation.
Ingredients for the Best Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed loaf:
Cake Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 200 g | Sifted for a lighter crumb |
| Sugar | 150 g | White granulated |
| Eggs | 2 | Room temperature |
| Yogurt | 120 ml | Plain, unsweetened |
| Vegetable oil | 100 ml | Neutral oil like canola |
| Lemon juice | From 2 lemons | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon zest | From 2 lemons | Finely grated |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | For rise and fluffiness |
| Salt | 1 pinch | Balances sweetness |
Glaze Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 100 g |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp (approx.) |
How to Make Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake Step by Step
Preparation & Mixing
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and creamy.
- Stir in the yogurt, oil, lemon juice, and zest.
Combining Dry & Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Don’t overmix—you want a soft, airy texture.
Baking
- Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing
- Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour over the cooled loaf and allow it to set before slicing.
Recipe Variations and Add-Ons
Lemon Poppy Seed Twist
- Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic American cafe flavor.
Extra Moist Version
- Swap half the yogurt for sour cream to add even more richness.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
- Replace regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Advice
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze just before serving.
- Make-Ahead: Bake the cake a day in advance and add glaze the next morning for a fresh look.
Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Lemon Loaf
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Use a microplane zester to get the finest zest without the bitter pith.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing to avoid a runny mess.
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added; it affects texture.
- Use parchment paper to easily lift the cake out of the loaf pan.
FAQ – Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh is preferred for better aroma and flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
What if I don’t have yogurt?
Greek yogurt or sour cream are great substitutes that maintain moisture.
How do I keep my loaf cake from sinking?
Avoid overmixing and don’t open the oven during the first 30 minutes.
Can I make this lemon loaf vegan?
Yes! Use flax eggs and a plant-based yogurt.
Is this recipe good for muffins?
Absolutely! Reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes for lemon muffins.
Time to Bake Your Glazed Lemon Loaf Cake
This cake is more than just a treat—it’s a warm hug in loaf form. Each slice delivers a burst of lemony brightness, balanced by a sweet, glossy glaze. Perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or shared during your next brunch gathering.
Now it’s your turn.
Grab your lemons, roll up your sleeves, and bring some sunshine into your kitchen. Don’t forget to tag your creations with #LemonLoafLove so others can be inspired by your bake!