Lemon Loaf
Lemon Loaf Recipe - Vegetarian Food
Introduction
Lemon loaf is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any time of the year. The combination of tangy lemon flavor and sweet glaze makes it a favorite among many. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, as well as nutrition information and serving suggestions.
History
The origins of lemon loaf are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in England. Lemon has long been used in baking to add a bright and citrusy flavor to cakes and desserts. The lemon loaf became popular in the United States in the 20th century and has since become a classic recipe for many home bakers.
Ingredients
- 1.75 cups of unbleached white flour
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 0.5 tsp of salt
- 1 large lemon
- 0.5 cup of vegan margarine, or a light, natural oil like sunflower
- 1 cup of granulated beet sugar (I haven't tried this with unrefined brown sugar, but I imagine it would be fine)
- equivalent of 2 eggs in egg replacer
- 0.67 cup of unflavored or vanilla flavored soy milk or nut milk
- 0.5 tsp of vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup of extra granulated beet sugar that has been powdered in your coffee grinder (to get an icing sugar consistency, for the glaze)
How to prepare
- Lightly oil a loaf pan.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Combine the dry ingredients (except the sugar).
- Finely grate the lemon peel (only the yellow part, as the white part is bitter!) and stir it into the flour mixture.
- Squeeze the juice from the lemon and mix it with 0.25 cup of powdered beet sugar in a small bowl. Set it aside for the glaze.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the margarine or oil and sugar together until creamy.
- Add the egg replacer and alternate adding half of the flour mixture with half of the milk mixture at a time, beating well between additions.
- Add the vanilla and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool on the counter for ten minutes, then drizzle it with the glaze.
- Let it cool for another ten minutes, then turn it out onto a cooling rack.
- Serve the loaf at room temperature.
Variations
- You can add poppy seeds to the batter for a lemon poppy seed loaf.
- For a more decadent treat, you can top the loaf with a cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to zest the lemon carefully, as only the yellow part of the peel should be used to avoid any bitterness.
- Be sure to alternate adding the dry and wet ingredients to the batter to ensure a smooth and even texture.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting and becoming too runny.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon loaf is best served with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. It can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to properly grease the loaf pan to prevent the loaf from sticking.
- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the loaf before removing it from the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use regular eggs instead of egg replacer if you are not following a vegan diet.
- Any type of neutral-flavored oil can be used in place of sunflower oil.
Make Ahead Tips
Lemon loaf can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The glaze can be added just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
You can garnish the lemon loaf with lemon slices or zest for a decorative touch. Dusting the loaf with powdered sugar before serving can also add a touch of elegance.
Pairing Recommendations
Lemon loaf pairs well with a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. It can also be served alongside fresh berries or a scoop of sorbet for a light and refreshing dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Lemon loaf can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of lemon loaf contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of lemon loaf contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of lemon loaf contains approximately 12 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of lemon loaf contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Lemon loaf is a good source of vitamin C, providing about 10% of the recommended daily intake per serving.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten and may contain soy, depending on the type of vegan oil used.
Summary
Lemon loaf is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in protein and high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of vitamin C and provides a moderate amount of calories per serving.
Summary
Lemon loaf is a classic dessert that is loved for its bright and citrusy flavor. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this delicious treat at any time of the day. Whether you are serving it for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat, lemon loaf is sure to be a hit with everyone.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining, and the scent of freshly cut grass filled the air. I was at a local farmer's market, browsing through the stalls of fresh produce and homemade goods, when I stumbled upon a small, handwritten recipe card for Lemon Loaf.
As I read through the recipe, my mouth watered at the thought of the tangy, sweet flavors of lemon coming together in a moist and decadent loaf. I knew I had to try my hand at making it. I purchased the ingredients I needed and hurried home to my kitchen, excited to begin my culinary adventure.
I gathered all the necessary ingredients – flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and of course, the star of the show, fresh lemons. I started by creaming together the butter and sugar, then adding in the eggs one at a time. The scent of lemon zest filled the kitchen as I grated the rind of the lemons into the batter, adding a burst of citrus flavor.
Next, I juiced the lemons and added the tangy liquid to the batter, along with a splash of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor. As I mixed the ingredients together, the batter transformed into a light and airy consistency, ready to be poured into a loaf pan and baked to perfection.
As the Lemon Loaf baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of citrus filled my home, making my mouth water in anticipation. I could hardly wait for it to finish baking so I could sink my teeth into a slice of warm, lemony goodness.
Finally, the timer dinged, signaling that the Lemon Loaf was ready. I carefully removed it from the oven and allowed it to cool before slicing into it. The texture was moist and tender, with a burst of lemon flavor in every bite. I couldn't believe how delicious it turned out – it was a true masterpiece.
I shared the Lemon Loaf with my family and friends, who were all amazed at how incredible it tasted. They couldn't believe I had made it from scratch, and they begged me for the recipe so they could try making it themselves.
From that day on, Lemon Loaf became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for every special occasion, from birthdays to holidays, and it never failed to impress. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and joy in creating something so delicious and memorable.
Over the years, I shared the recipe with countless people, passing it down through generations of family and friends. It became a beloved tradition, a reminder of the simple joys of baking and sharing homemade treats with loved ones.
As I look back on that first time I saw the recipe for Lemon Loaf, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover it. It has brought me so much joy and connection with others, and I will always cherish the memories of baking it in my kitchen, surrounded by the love and laughter of those I hold dear.
And so, the story of my Lemon Loaf recipe continues to be written, each slice a reminder of the wonder and magic that can be found in the simple act of baking and sharing food with others.
Categories
| Brown Sugar Recipes | Dessert Loaf Recipes | Lemon Peel Recipes | Soy Milk Recipes | Vanilla Extract Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |