Luscious Lemon Loaf Cake

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this lemon loaf cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served with a cup of tea in the afternoon, as a sweet breakfast option, or the star of a brunch table, this cake embodies the refreshing tang of lemons in a soft, buttery loaf. It’s not only easy to make but also deeply satisfying. With its aromatic lemon zest and the bonus of a lemony syrup soak, each bite is bursting with citrus sunshine.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

For the Cake:

• 2 organic lemons (zest only)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 9 tablespoons (4.5 oz) unsalted butter, melted
• Dash of vanilla extract

For the Lemon Syrup:

• 3 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

 Directions

1. Prepare the Batter

• Preheat oven: to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
• Mix zest and sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest with sugar. Use your fingers to rub them together until the sugar is fragrant.
• Add eggs: Beat in the eggs until the mixture becomes light and airy.
• Dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
• Combine: Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet, alternating with plain yogurt. Stir gently until smooth.
• Add butter & vanilla: Mix in the cooled melted butter and a dash of vanilla. The batter should be creamy and pourable.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 50 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.

3. Make Lemon Syrup

• While the cake bakes, combine lemon juice, water, and sugar in a small saucepan.
• Heat over medium until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil.

4. Soak and Cool

• Once baked, let the cake sit in the pan for 5 minutes.
• Poke small holes in the top using a skewer or fork.
• Pour the syrup evenly across the top while still warm.
• Allow the syrup to soak in for 10 minutes.
• Remove from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.

 Prep Time & 🍽️ Calories

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Calories: ~366 kcal per serving (based on 8 servings)

 Tips for the Perfect Lemon Loaf Cake

1. Use Fresh Lemons:

• Freshly grated zest and juice are key to achieving a robust lemon flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter:

• Stir until just combined to keep the cake tender and avoid a dense texture.

3. Temperature Matters:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in smooth blending and even baking.

4. Perfect Butter Melt:

• Melt butter and let it cool slightly before mixing it in. Hot butter can cook the eggs.

5. Cake Flour Alternative:

• You can substitute cake flour for a softer crumb by using 1½ cups minus 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour plus 3 tablespoons of cornstarch.

6. Syrup Soaking Tip:

• Pour the syrup slowly to let it soak properly into the cake rather than just pooling on the top.

7. Glaze for Extra Zing:

• Want an extra lemon punch? Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice and drizzle on top after the cake cools.

8. Storage Advice:

• Wrap in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Keeps fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days.

9. Freezing Friendly:

• Let it cool completely, wrap tightly in cling film and foil, then freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

10. Serving Suggestions:

• Delicious with whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

 How to Prepare the Recipe Step-by-Step:

Step 1: Mise en Place

• Measure all ingredients beforehand.
• Zest the lemons and squeeze fresh juice.
• Line the loaf pan and preheat the oven.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

• Zest and sugar blending enhances lemon aroma.
• Egg mixture should be pale yellow and fluffy.
• Alternate dry ingredients and yogurt for a smooth blend.

Step 3: Bake

• Pour batter evenly.
• Bake until top is golden and center is firm.

Step 4: Lemon Syrup Soak

• Make the syrup while baking.
• Pour onto the warm cake for deep lemon infusion.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Cool completely before slicing.
• Add optional glaze or topping if desired.

Enjoy the perfect slice of sunshine!