Description
This delightful Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze is a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Moist and tender, it features fresh rhubarb folded into a lemon-infused batter and finished with a tangy lemon glaze. Ideal for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light dessert, this easy-to-make loaf combines vibrant citrus notes with the unique texture and flavor of rhubarb for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lemon Rhubarb 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 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 becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth texture for the batter.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them and maintain the batter’s consistency.
- Incorporate Lemon Flavor: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest to infuse the batter with fresh citrus flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the loaf.
- Fold in Rhubarb: Carefully fold the chopped rhubarb into the batter to ensure even distribution without crushing the pieces.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top for even baking.
- Bake: Bake the loaf for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool the Loaf: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth to make the glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled loaf for a sweet, tangy finish.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the loaf tender.
- Chopped rhubarb adds a nice tartness; ensure it is evenly distributed to avoid concentrated spots.
- The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less lemon juice depending on desired thickness.
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This loaf can be served as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert paired nicely with tea or coffee.
