Lemon Lavender Loaf โ€“ Easy Recipe to Try Today

If youโ€™re looking for a refreshing dessert that combines the citrusy goodness of lemon with a unique floral twist, the Lemon Lavender Loaf is the perfect choice. This easy-to-make recipe brings together the zesty brightness of lemon and the subtle, calming flavor of lavender, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf thatโ€™s ideal for any occasion. Whether youโ€™re enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it at your next gathering, this loaf will surely impress.

Lemon Lavender Loaf

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Lemon Lavender Loaf

This Lemon Lavender Loaf is more than just a delicious dessertโ€”itโ€™s an experience. The combination of lemon and lavender creates a delightful balance of tart and floral flavors that are both soothing and refreshing. Itโ€™s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for novice bakers or anyone looking for a simple yet impressive treat. The subtle lavender adds a unique twist to the traditional lemon loaf, making it an unforgettable addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

  • Eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the loaf, ensuring it remains soft and tender.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the loaf, balancing out the tanginess of the lemon.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice infuses the loaf with a refreshing, tangy flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps the loaf achieve a moist texture.
  • Dried Lavender: Offers a light, floral note that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
  • All-purpose Flour: Forms the base of the batter, contributing to the structure and texture of the loaf.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the loaf rise, giving it a light, airy texture.
  • Lemon Juice (for glaze): This extra bit of lemon juice adds a burst of citrus flavor to the loafโ€™s top, making it even more irresistible.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If youโ€™re looking to make substitutions, you can try these options:

  • Gluten-free flour: For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Honey or maple syrup: Swap the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness and a hint of extra flavor.
  • Lavender oil: If you donโ€™t have dried lavender, consider using a drop of lavender essential oil (ensure itโ€™s food-safe) to capture that aromatic floral essence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 360ยฐF (180ยฐC). Line a 2-pound loaf tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes using an electric mixer.
  3. Add lemon, butter, and lavender: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, melted butter, and dried lavender. Mix until well combined.
  4. Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the mixture. Mix everything together until the batter is smooth.
  5. Bake the loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Add the lemon glaze: As soon as the loaf comes out of the oven, pour the sweetened lemon juice over the top. This will enhance the loafโ€™s citrus flavor and keep it moist.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the loaf to cool completely before slicing. Optional: garnish with candied lemon slices for a decorative touch.
Lemon Lavender Loaf

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure proper mixing: For the best texture, whisk the eggs and sugar until they are fully incorporated and pale. This creates a lighter loaf.
  • Donโ€™t skip the glaze: Pouring the sweetened lemon juice immediately after baking ensures the loaf absorbs the citrusy goodness and stays moist.
  • Baking time adjustments: If you find your loaf needs a bit more time due to varying oven temperatures, simply check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, your loaf is ready.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Lemon Lavender Loaf is a perfect standalone treat, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides or toppings:

  • Serve with tea: A hot cup of green tea or chamomile perfectly complements the floral notes of the loaf.
  • Add a lemon glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top for an indulgent finish.
  • Make it a gift: Packaged beautifully, this loaf makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family, especially around spring or Easter.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

Lemon Lavender Loaf is more than just a tasty treatโ€”it can also be a great addition to a spring-themed brunch or picnic. The health benefits of lemon, such as being a rich source of vitamin C, combined with the calming properties of lavender, make this loaf a delightful way to brighten up your day while enjoying some comfort food.

Baking this loaf during the spring is a fantastic way to use seasonal ingredients like fresh lemons and lavender. The bright flavors are synonymous with the renewal and freshness of the season, making it the perfect springtime dessert.

Enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Lavender Loafโ€”itโ€™s a flavorful, simple, and elegant way to bring a taste of spring into your home!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Lemon Lavender Loaf is a delightful and easy-to-make treat thatโ€™s perfect for springtime or any time you want a refreshing dessert. The zesty lemon combined with the aromatic lavender creates a uniquely satisfying loaf that will brighten up any occasion. Whether you choose to make it for a special gathering, enjoy it with your morning coffee, or gift it to loved ones, this loaf is sure to be a hit. With a simple list of ingredients, straightforward steps, and optional garnishes, itโ€™s a recipe thatโ€™s accessible to everyoneโ€”from beginner bakers to seasoned pros.

Donโ€™t forget the optional candied lemon slices or glaze, which add an extra layer of sweetness and presentation. The combination of flavors will have you coming back for more, making this Lemon Lavender Loaf a staple in your baking repertoire.

FAQs

Can I omit the lavender in this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely omit the lavender if youโ€™re not a fan or donโ€™t have it on hand. The loaf will still have the refreshing lemon flavor, and you can substitute it with other flavorings like vanilla extract or a touch of cinnamon for a different twist.

How can I make my Lemon Lavender Loaf more moist?

To keep your loaf moist, make sure you donโ€™t overbake it. Check it with a skewer towards the end of the baking time, and once it comes out clean, take it out of the oven. The lemon glaze poured over the loaf also helps to lock in moisture, making it even softer.

Can I use dried lemon peel instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and moisture for this loaf, you can use dried lemon peel as an alternative. Just be sure to rehydrate the dried peel with a little bit of water before adding it to the batter to ensure it mixes well.

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Lemon Lavender Loaf

Lemon Lavender Loaf Recipe:

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  • Author: Molly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 slices (1 loaf) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy Lemon Lavender Loaf combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the subtle floral notes of lavender. The perfect treat for spring, itโ€™s a moist, flavorful loaf thatโ€™s both simple to make and visually impressive.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium eggs
  • ยพ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
  • ยฝ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (120 milliliters)
  • ยพ stick unsalted butter, melted (80 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon dried lavender
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (280 grams)
  • 2ยฝ teaspoons baking powder
  • ยผ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice for glaze (60 milliliters)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (for glaze)
  • Optional: 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams) for candied lemon
  • Optional: 1 cup water (250 milliliters) for candied lemon
  • Optional: 2 small lemons for candied lemon slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 360ยฐF (180ยฐC). Line a 2-pound loaf tin with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and creamy.
  3. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, melted butter, and dried lavender. Mix until combined.
  4. Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the mixture and mix until smooth.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the loaf comes out clean.
  7. Immediately after removing the loaf from the oven, pour the sweetened lemon juice over the top.
  8. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing.
  9. Optional: Garnish with candied lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • If you donโ€™t have dried lavender, feel free to omit it or substitute with another flavoring like vanilla extract.
  • Ensure the loaf is fully cooled before slicing to avoid crumbling.
  • If you prefer a sweeter loaf, feel free to drizzle more glaze or add a sugar glaze on top.
  • For a more fragrant loaf, use organic or wax-free lemons.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Sugar: 31 g
  • Sodium: 14 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 41 mg

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