Introduction
Lemon Dream Bread is a delightful escape into sunny flavors. With its moist and tender crumb, this bread is complemented perfectly by a vibrant lemon glaze. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend treat or a sweet gift for your loved ones.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
230g all-purpose flour
150g granulated sugar
100ml milk
120ml vegetable oil
2 large eggs
60ml lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
100g powdered sugar (for glaze)
30ml lemon juice (for glaze)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, oil, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice.
9. Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.
10. Slice and enjoy your Lemon Dream Bread!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C. This ensures that your Lemon Dream Bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven heats up, take a moment to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. The combination of these ingredients forms the foundation for your bread, providing structure and sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. This mixture adds moisture and brightness to your bread, infusing it with that delightful citrus flavor.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a less tender crumb.
Step 5: Transfer to Pan
Gently pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula if necessary. This step is crucial for ensuring even baking and a beautiful loaf shape.
Step 6: Bake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it, starting at the 50-minute mark. Your bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating a perfectly baked loaf.
Step 7: Cool in Pan
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This rest period helps it set and makes removing it easier without breaking.
Step 8: Transfer to Wire Rack
Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents any steam from building up underneath, which could make the bread soggy.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While your bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable, ready to bring a sweet citrus zing to your bread.
Step 10: Glaze and Serve
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top. Slice your Lemon Dream Bread and prepare to enjoy a slice of sunshine in every bite!
Notes
Ingredient Quality
For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh lemon zest. The vibrant citrus notes will elevate your bread to the next level.
Storage Suggestions
Store your Lemon Dream Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It can also be refrigerated for a week, ensuring that it stays fresh and delicious.
Freezing Option
If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Ensure that you whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents. This helps the Lemon Dream Bread rise uniformly.
Combining Wet Ingredients
When mixing the milk, oil, eggs, lemon juice, and zest, ensure they are well combined before adding to the dry ingredients. This ensures even flavor throughout the bread.
Proper Mixing Method
After adding the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, so stop as soon as there are no dry spots.
Baking to Perfection
Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Cooling the Bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set before transferring to a wire rack. This step prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Preparing the Glaze
For a smooth lemon glaze, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice until fully combined and without lumps. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or lemon juice if needed.
FAQ
Can I use other citrus fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice and zest with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor.
How should I store the Lemon Dream Bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Can I freeze Lemon Dream Bread?
Yes, the bread can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer.
What can I serve with Lemon Dream Bread?
This bread pairs well with tea or coffee and can be enjoyed plain or with butter or cream cheese spread on top.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to check for a suitable mix that includes a binding agent.
Conclusion
Lemon Dream Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunny flavors with its moist texture and zesty glaze. Whether enjoyed as a weekend indulgence or gifted to friends and family, this bread is sure to brighten anyone’s day. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a perfect recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Blueberry Bread
Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist that complements the lemon perfectly.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Incorporate poppy seeds into the batter to add a delightful crunch and aesthetic appeal to your Lemon Dream Bread.
Lemon Coconut Bread
Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes.
Lemon Walnut Bread
Add chopped walnuts for a nutty flavor and an extra layer of texture, making the bread even more satisfying.
Lemon Apricot Bread
Diced dried apricots can add a chewy sweetness that complements the tangy lemon beautifully.
Lemon Almond Bread
Include almond extract along with chopped almonds in the batter for a rich and aromatic flavor profile.
