Bake a moist and flavorful Lemon Loaf Bread with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a sweet citrus glaze. This easy homemade loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or afternoon tea.

Lemon Loaf Bread: Bright, Moist, and Bursting with Citrus Flavor

Lemon Loaf Bread is a soft, tender quick bread infused with fresh lemon juice and fragrant lemon zest. Topped with a sweet lemon glaze, this loaf delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in every slice.

Whether served for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or alongside a cup of tea, this bakery-style lemon loaf is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and tender texture
Bright fresh lemon flavor
Easy one-bowl recipe
Perfect for breakfast or dessert
Delicious sweet lemon glaze

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 50–55 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Syrup (Optional)

2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Equipment Needed

8×4-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and line an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

Flour
Baking powder
Salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

Sugar
Eggs
Yogurt or sour cream
Vegetable oil
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

Stir just until combined.

Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Syrup

While the loaf bakes, combine:

Lemon juice
Sugar

Stir until dissolved.

Step 7: Add the Syrup

When the loaf comes out of the oven, allow it to cool for 10 minutes.

Poke small holes in the top using a skewer.

Brush or spoon the lemon syrup over the loaf.

This adds extra moisture and lemon flavor.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack.

Allow it to cool completely before glazing.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Powdered sugar
Lemon juice

Mix until smooth and pourable.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.

Allow it to set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Serve and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Loaf Bread pairs wonderfully with:

Coffee
Tea
Fresh berries
Whipped cream
Yogurt
Fruit salad

Tips for Success

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor
Zest lemons before juicing them
Do not overmix the batter
Let the loaf cool completely before glazing
Use room-temperature ingredients for even baking

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator

Store for up to 1 week.

Freezer

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight before serving.

Variations

Lemon Blueberry Loaf

Fold in 1 cup fresh blueberries before baking.

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Add 1 tablespoon poppy seeds to the batter.

Glazed Lemon Almond Loaf

Add ½ teaspoon almond extract.

Lemon Coconut Loaf

Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut.

Extra Lemon Version

Increase lemon zest for a more intense citrus flavor.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Loaf Bread is a bright and refreshing treat that’s incredibly easy to make. With its moist crumb, vibrant citrus flavor, and sweet lemon glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion—from casual breakfasts to elegant afternoon gatherings. One slice is never enough, making this loaf a recipe you’ll want to bake again and again.