Description
This Raspberry Lemon Loaf is a moist and flavorful quick bread bursting with fresh raspberries and bright lemon zest and juice. Perfectly tender with a hint of tang from Greek yogurt, it’s an easy-to-make dessert or snack that’s wonderful for summer or any time you crave a fruity treat. The loaf can be dressed up with a simple lemon glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra pop of sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Fruit
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (or frozen, unthawed and tossed with 1 tablespoon flour)
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon glaze (see notes)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes a few minutes with a mixer.
- Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Then mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract for bright flavor.
- Add Greek Yogurt: Stir in the plain Greek yogurt or sour cream until the batter is smooth and creamy, adding moisture and tenderness to the loaf.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough.
- Fold in Raspberries: Carefully fold in the fresh or floured frozen raspberries to distribute them evenly without breaking them up too much.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain its shape and texture.
- Add Finishing Touches: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a homemade lemon glaze (mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice) if desired for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
Notes
- To make a lemon glaze, simply mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice until smooth.
- For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest to enhance the loaf’s citrus flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months for longer preservation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American