Description
This Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze is a delightful and tangy treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Moist and flavorful, the loaf combines the tartness of fresh rhubarb and lemon zest with a sweet lemon glaze, creating a balanced and refreshing flavor profile. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, this loaf makes a beautiful centerpiece for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Loaf
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to aerate the batter.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition to ensure even incorporation.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest to infuse the batter with a bright citrus flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda for an even distribution of leavening agents.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
- Fold in Rhubarb: Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb to distribute it evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Loaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the loaf is fully cooked.
- Cool the Loaf: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled loaf for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the loaf tender.
- If rhubarb is too tart for your taste, you can reduce the amount slightly or mix with strawberries for a sweeter balance.
- The glaze thickness can be adjusted by varying the amount of lemon juice; use less for a thicker glaze and more for a thinner drizzle.
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- This loaf freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw before glazing.
