Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh is definitely best for this recipe. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, vibrant flavor that makes this bread special. The oils in fresh lemon zest are particularly important for authentic lemon flavor, something bottled juice can't provide. If you're in a pinch, you can use bottled, but expect a less pronounced lemon flavor.

Why did my bread sink in the middle after baking?

A sinking middle usually happens when the bread is underbaked, the oven door was opened too early in the baking process, or there was too much leavening agent. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, avoid opening the oven during the first 30 minutes of baking, and measure your baking powder and soda carefully.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Absolutely! This batter works beautifully as muffins. Fill lined muffin cups about 2/3 full and bake at 350°F for approximately 18-22 minutes. You'll get about 12-14 muffins from this recipe, and they're perfect for on-the-go snacking or lunchboxes.

My glaze is too runny/thick. How can I fix it?

For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time. If your glaze is too thick, add more lemon juice or a tiny splash of milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The perfect glaze should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable.

Heavenly Lemon Bread Recipe

Description

This tangy and sweet Lemon Bread is the perfect treat for any occasion. It has a soft, moist texture with a refreshing citrus flavor amplified by a lemony glaze. A simple yet delightful baked good that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Bread:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 eggs
4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional, for additional lemon flavor)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
Zest from 1 large lemon
Juice from 1 1/2 lemons

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then spray it with cooking spray. Set the prepared pan aside.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, use an electric handheld mixer to whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the milk until combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use the mixer on low speed until everything is fully combined.
Add Lemon Zest and Extract
Gently fold in the lemon zest and, if desired, the lemon extract. These give the bread its fresh citrus flavor.
Transfer to the Pan
Pour the prepared batter into your lined loaf pan. Make a shallow cut (about ½ inch deep) lengthwise through the center of the batter to help the bread rise evenly in the oven.
Bake the Bread
Bake the lemon bread for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the bread starts browning too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Cool the Bread
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth. Use a spoon or fork to drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. Let the glaze set before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy
Cut the bread into thick slices (about 10-12 pieces) and enjoy its delightful zesty flavor!

Notes

Double the recipe to make extra loaves to store or share.
Keep the bread warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. For a quick warm-up, microwave a slice for 10 seconds.
Check the bread after 30-35 minutes. If the top is browning too much, cover it with foil.
This bread freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
For variety, you can add mix-ins such as poppy seeds, blueberries, or chopped nuts.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 240kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 130mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg