Iced Lemon Loaf Cake: A Refreshing Recipe for Your Next Dessert

Iced Lemon Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. As I take a bite of this moist, zesty cake, I am transported to sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air. This recipe has roots in traditional baking, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing warmth and togetherness.

People adore iced lemon loaf cake not just for its refreshing flavor but also for its light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. The convenience of this recipe makes it a favorite among home bakers, as it requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Whether served as a dessert or a delightful afternoon snack, this cake is sure to brighten your day and leave you craving more. Join me as we dive into the world of this scrumptious treat and learn how to create your very own iced lemon loaf cake!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)

For the Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will ensure that your cake comes out easily after baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which will help your cake rise.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. The zest adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the cake.
5. Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and lemon juice. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Baking the Cake

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This helps to ensure an even rise while baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary.
8. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential for the texture of the cake.

Preparing the Icing

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. The consistency should be pourable but thick enough to hold its shape.
2. If the icing is too thick, add a little more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Assembling the Cake

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, place it on a serving platter. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
2. Drizzle the icing over the top of the loaf, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can use a spatula to spread it evenly if you prefer a more polished look.
3. Let the icing set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This will help the icing firm up a bit, making it easier to cut clean slices.

Serving Suggestions

1. Slice the loaf into thick pieces and serve it as a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee. The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with a warm beverage.
2. For an extra touch, consider serving each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.
3. This cake also makes a lovely gift! Wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a charming presentation.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Iced Lemon Loaf Cake is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. The moist, fluffy texture combined with the zesty lemon flavor makes it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon at home or hosting a gathering with friends. The refreshing icing adds that extra touch of brightness, making each slice a little piece of sunshine. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this cake with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant dessert. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or even a hint of lavender for a floral twist. The possibilities are endless! I truly encourage you to give this Iced Lemon Loaf Cake a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve baked it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of baking together! Happy baking! Print