Easy Lemon Bread
Whenever I think of warm, inviting aromas filling the kitchen, I can’t help but recall the first time I baked Easy Lemon Bread. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was feeling adventurous, wanting to fill my home with something light and zesty. With a few simple ingredients, the bright scent of lemon began to waft through my home, creating a cheerful atmosphere that made everything feel just a little bit brighter. This deliciously fluffy bread is perfect for breakfast with a cup of tea or as a delightful snack in the afternoon. Each slice sings with tangy notes and a hint of sweetness that makes it incredibly hard to resist. It’s one of those recipes that brings the family together, and I often find myself sharing it with friends and neighbors, each slice disappearing within moments!
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
10 mins
55 mins
Medium
190 kcal
3g g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
8g g
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Frying Pan, Oven
Why This Easy Lemon Bread Is So Good
Bright and Zesty Flavor
The moment you take a bite of Easy Lemon Bread, you’re greeted with a burst of citrus. The balance of tartness from the lemon combined with just the right amount of sweetness makes it a standout. It’s refreshing and invigorating, perfect for those who enjoy a little zing in their baked goods.
Perfectly Moist Texture
One of the highlights of this bread is its moist and soft texture. Thanks to the combination of ingredients like buttermilk and coconut oil, each slice is fluffy, making it satisfying without being heavy. It’s a texture that’s hard to achieve in many quick breads, and I love how it keeps the bread fresh for days.
Versatility
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you enjoy your Easy Lemon Bread plain, sprinkled with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a simple lemon glaze, it can easily adapt to your taste. You can also enjoy it as is or make it the star of a brunch spread, served alongside fresh fruits or a creamy yogurt.
Simple Ingredients
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this delightful bread. The ease of making it without needing any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients makes it perfect for bakers of all levels. It’s a great way to introduce baking to someone new.
Family Favorite
This recipe has become a beloved family favorite. Every time I bake a loaf, I can count on my kids and my partner to gather around, excitedly waiting for that first warm slice. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings us together.
Recipe Ingredients for Easy Lemon Bread
The ingredients for Easy Lemon Bread are a delightful mix that enhances the flavor and texture of the bread. The star players are the lemon and buttermilk, which create a balanced, tangy goodness. Each ingredient has its role, from providing moisture to ensuring the bread rises beautifully.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – The base of this recipe, providing structure and texture.
- 2 tsp baking powder – A key leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil – Provides moisture and a slight coconut flavor.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Infuses a bright, zesty flavor to the bread.
- 2 to 3 tbsp lemon zest – More zest means more lemon flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- 3/4 cup sugar – Sweetens the bread and balances the tartness of the lemon.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Used for the glaze to add sweetness and a lovely finish.
- 1 to 2 tbsp lemon juice – For the glaze, adding a tangy finish.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest – Optional garnish to sprinkle on top for extra flavor.
Making This Easy Lemon Bread
Making Easy Lemon Bread is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have a smile on your face from the moment you start mixing the ingredients. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a lovely loaf that fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an essential first step to ensure your bread bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients on the countertop to make the process smoother.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important as it combines the dry ingredients evenly and ensures that the leavening agent activates correctly.
- In a separate bowl, beat together buttermilk, coconut oil, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The mixture should be well combined, and you’ll notice a pleasant citrus aroma filling the air.
- Gradually stir in sugar until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture will start to feel a bit thicker and richer.
- Now, gently fold in the flour mixture. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until everything is well combined. You want a few lumps to remain, which will help keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Grease an 8×4 inch bread pan generously with oil or butter to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to even the top, making it smooth and ready for the oven.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
- Once baked, cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set perfectly and prevents it from getting soggy.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice to create the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if it’s too runny, or more lemon juice if it’s too thick.
- Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over it and sprinkle additional lemon zest on top if desired. Let it set for a bit before slicing to allow the glaze to firm up.
Things Worth Knowing
- Room Temperature Ingredients: If possible, use room temperature ingredients. This helps in achieving a better texture in your bread.
- Monitoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread, especially towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.
- Testing for Doneness: When testing with a toothpick, make sure to insert it into the center of the bread for an accurate reading.
- Cooling Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting into the warm bread.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Easy Lemon Bread turns out perfectly every time. These insights come from my own experience in the kitchen!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It stays moist and delicious.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.
- Pairing: This bread is delightful when paired with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a refreshing afternoon snack alongside fresh fruits.
- Variations: Add poppy seeds or chia seeds for a unique texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits.
- Gluten-Free Option: If needed, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Easy Lemon Bread, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to help you enjoy your creation:
- Breakfast Delight: Serve slices with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for a bright start to your day.
- Brunch Buffet: This bread is a crowd-pleaser at brunch. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad and yogurt for a complete meal.
- Tea Time: Enjoy it alongside your favorite tea—its citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with herbal teas.
- Seasonal Treat: Serve it during spring gatherings or for a light dessert at summer barbecues.
- Storage Tip: If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Easy Lemon Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances zesty flavors with a moist texture. It’s a recipe that celebrates the bright essence of lemons and is sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t regret it! Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is bound to impress everyone!
Easy Lemon Bread
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Wooden Spoon
- Whisk
- Frying Pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp tsp salt
- 3/4 cup cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup cup coconut oil
- 1 egg egg
- 2 tbsp tbsp lemon juice
- 2 to 3 tbsp tbsp lemon zest more zest = more lemon flavor
- 3/4 cup cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tbsp tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp tbsp lemon zest to sprinkle on top optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an essential first step to ensure your bread bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients on the countertop to make the process smoother.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important as it combines the dry ingredients evenly and ensures that the leavening agent activates correctly.
- In a separate bowl, beat together buttermilk, coconut oil, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The mixture should be well combined, and you'll notice a pleasant citrus aroma filling the air.
- Gradually stir in sugar until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture will start to feel a bit thicker and richer.
- Now, gently fold in the flour mixture. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until everything is well combined. You want a few lumps to remain, which will help keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Grease an 8x4 inch bread pan generously with oil or butter to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to even the top, making it smooth and ready for the oven.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
- Once baked, cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set perfectly and prevents it from getting soggy.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice to create the glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if it’s too runny, or more lemon juice if it’s too thick.
- Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over it and sprinkle additional lemon zest on top if desired. Let it set for a bit before slicing to allow the glaze to firm up.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It stays moist and delicious.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.
- Tip 3: This bread is delightful when paired with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a refreshing afternoon snack alongside fresh fruits.
- Tip 4: Add poppy seeds or chia seeds for a unique texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits.
- Tip 5: If needed, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
