This lemon loaf is a delightful and refreshing treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made in a bread machine, it combines the zesty flavor of lemons with a soft, moist texture that everyone will enjoy.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal hands-on time, making it an excellent choice for busy bakers. You can easily adjust the sweetness or add a glaze for extra flavor.
Overview of the Lemon Loaf
This lemon loaf is a refreshing treat that brightens any occasion. Its zesty flavor and moist texture make it a delightful choice for breakfast or dessert.
Perfectly baked to a golden brown, the loaf boasts a glossy finish that is visually appealing. The combination of lemon zest and juice infuses the bread with a vibrant taste, making each slice a burst of citrus goodness.
Preparation and Baking Process
Using a bread machine simplifies the baking process significantly. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious loaf without the need for extensive hands-on time.
Start by adding the wet ingredients to the bread machine, followed by the dry ingredients. This method ensures that everything mixes evenly, resulting in a fluffy texture. The machine takes care of the mixing and baking, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for this lemon loaf are straightforward yet effective. Water, sugar, and vegetable oil form the base, while lemon zest and juice provide the signature flavor.
Using high-quality bread flour is essential for achieving the right texture. The yeast helps the loaf rise, creating that lovely airy quality that complements the lemon perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, the lemon loaf is best enjoyed fresh. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and enhances its visual appeal.
For an extra touch, serve it with lemon slices on the side. Pairing the loaf with a cup of tea or coffee creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a delightful breakfast treat.
Storage Tips
To maintain its freshness, store the lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing slices. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes!
Nutrition Information
This lemon loaf is not only delicious but also relatively light. Each slice contains around 180 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
With a balance of carbohydrates and a modest amount of fat, it fits well into a variety of dietary plans. Enjoy it as a part of a balanced meal or as a sweet treat without overindulging.
Easy Bread Machine Lemon Loaf Recipe
This lemon loaf features a light and fluffy texture with a bright lemon flavor. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: Pour the water, sugar, and vegetable oil into the bread machine pan. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Carefully add the bread flour, salt, and yeast on top of the wet ingredients. Do not stir.
- Select Cycle: Choose the ‘Quick Bread’ or ‘Cake’ cycle on your bread machine and start it.
- Check Consistency: After a few minutes, check the dough consistency. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water; if too wet, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Cool and Serve: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g