One-Bowl Lemon Bread

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Lemon Bread Recipe

Ingredients

For the bread:

• Cooking spray
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

For the icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest (or to taste)
• 1 pinch salt

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Lightly spray an 8 1/2x4 1/2-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, olive oil, lemon zest (2 tablespoons), lemon juice (1/4 cup), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Add 1 cup of flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture. Stir until just incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Add the remaining 1 cup of flour and mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any large air bubbles.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes. The top should spring back lightly when touched, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.

Step 8: For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice (2 tablespoons), heavy cream, lemon zest (1/4 teaspoon), and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Let the icing set before slicing and serving.

Cook's Note

You can substitute vegetable or canola oil for the olive oil if you prefer. This recipe can also be made in a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Just be sure to check for doneness 5 to 10 minutes earlier than the original recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	312
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	42mg
Sodium	257mg
Total Carbohydrate	52g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	32g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	83mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	94mg

Origin Story: Lemon bread is a beloved treat in many parts of the world, but this particular variation, the One-Bowl Lemon Bread, comes from the American tradition of quick breads. These breads are often made without yeast and require minimal preparation time, making them perfect for busy mornings or casual gatherings. The One-Bowl Lemon Bread recipe was developed to simplify the baking process, requiring only a single bowl to mix all the ingredients. This simple approach allows bakers of all skill levels to enjoy a fresh, homemade loaf of lemon bread with minimal mess and effort.

Regional Characteristics

In the United States, lemon-flavored baked goods like lemon loaf and lemon cake are especially popular in the southern and coastal regions where citrus fruits thrive. The tartness of the lemon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of sugar, creating a balanced flavor profile that has become synonymous with warm, sunny days. In the coastal areas of California and Florida, for example, lemon bread is often enjoyed as a light dessert or snack, with a drizzle of fresh citrus glaze to complement the bread's texture. This regional love for citrus fruit has undoubtedly influenced the widespread popularity of lemon-based quick breads.

Distinctive Features

The One-Bowl Lemon Bread stands out from other similar lemon cakes or loaves due to its simplicity. Unlike more complex cakes, this bread uses only one bowl for mixing, which significantly reduces cleanup time. The texture of the bread is slightly more dense compared to a traditional sponge cake, but it remains incredibly moist due to the combination of buttermilk and olive oil. Additionally, the balance of flavors from fresh lemon zest, juice, and vanilla extract gives it a refreshing citrusy kick that is often missing from other lemon loaves. The accompanying lemon glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and a tangy finish.

Where It Is Typically Served

One-Bowl Lemon Bread is perfect for a variety of occasions. It is often served as a brunch item, where it can be paired with tea or coffee. Its light yet flavorful nature makes it an ideal snack during afternoon tea parties or casual gatherings. In addition, this bread makes a great addition to a picnic basket, as it holds up well even after hours of travel. It's also common to find it in cafes or bakeries where fresh, homemade pastries are offered. Due to its popularity, its not uncommon to see it during holidays like Easter, where lemon-flavored treats are a refreshing alternative to the richer, heavier desserts typically enjoyed during the season.

Fun Facts About Lemon Bread

Did you know that lemon bread's roots trace back to the English tradition of lemon cake, which dates back to the 18th century? While the Americans popularized quick lemon breads like the One-Bowl Lemon Bread, British bakers have been incorporating lemon zest and juice into their cakes for centuries. Furthermore, the addition of olive oil in this recipe isnt just for flavor its also a healthier alternative to butter, contributing to the bread's moistness without the saturated fats. Finally, the use of buttermilk, a key ingredient in this recipe, helps tenderize the crumb and enhances the bread's flavor. When paired with the simple lemon glaze, the final product is a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness thats sure to please any palate.

FAQ about One-Bowl Lemon Bread

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