Since we’re all boycotting Starbucks, now’s the perfect time to whip up this Lemon Vanilla Loaf Cake!
Lemon Loaf
A moist slice of citrus-infused bliss .
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar with the zest of one lemon. Use your fingertips to rub the zest into the sugar until fragrant and well combined, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and creamy. Add the vanilla essence and mix until well combined.
- Gradually pour in the oil and warm milk while continuing to mix until smooth.
- Sift the flour and baking powder into the wet mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, you can prepare a simple lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake before slicing and serving.
Video
Notes
- Use a neutral-flavored oil such as vegetable or canola oil to allow the lemon and vanilla flavors to shine without interference.
- Mixing Technique: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough or dense cake. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is ready.
- Remember that rubbing the sugar and lemon zest together is crucial for infusing the cake with a vibrant lemon flavor