Description

A bright, fluffy, and zesty lemon cake made with fresh lemon juice and zest, finished with a tangy glaze. Perfect for any occasion, this moist loaf cake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

1/4 cup milk

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the yogurt, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth to make the glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled cake.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.

Swap lemon with orange for a citrus twist.

Sour cream adds a richer texture than yogurt.

Fold in blueberries or poppy seeds for variation.

Use plant-based dairy alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg