Are you ready to enjoy a delightful twist on classic zucchini bread? This lemon zucchini bread with glaze combines the moist, tender texture of zucchini bread with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons. Perfect as a sunny breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert, this bread promises to bring joy to your taste buds. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delectable treat that’s bound to be a hit in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this lemon zucchini bread. Imagine biting into a slice that is both sweet and tangy, with a hint of lemon zest in every mouthful. The moisture from the zucchini keeps the bread tender, while the lemon glaze adds a refreshing finish. Here are a few more reasons to love this recipe:
- Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses fresh zucchini and real lemon juice, making it not only tasty but also wholesome.
- Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or a light dessert. It fits perfectly into any occasion!
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward with simple steps to follow.
- Perfect for Leftover Zucchini: If you have extra zucchini from your garden, this is a delicious way to use it up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is fundamental to creating delightful lemon zucchini bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium-sized zucchini)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your lemon zucchini bread:
1. Prepare the Zucchini
Start by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Grate it using a box grater or food processor. You don’t need to peel it; the skin adds color and nutrients!
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together until well combined, then set aside.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; stir just until the flour is incorporated.
6. Add Zucchini
Fold in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed throughout the batter. You’ll notice that it’s a thick batter, and that’s perfectly fine!
7. Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Glaze
While the bread cools, mix the powdered sugar with the lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more sugar or lemon juice.
10. Glaze the Bread
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips
Now that you’ve made your delightful lemon zucchini bread, here are some tips on how to serve and store it:
1. Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of your lemon zucchini bread plain or toasted. Feel free to pair it with a dollop of butter or a spread of cream cheese for added flavor. A side of fresh fruit or a cup of tea can complement this treat perfectly!
2. Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.
Helpful Tips
- Choosing Zucchini: Select firm, fresh zucchini without blemishes. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and less watery.
- Egg Temperature: Using eggs at room temperature helps them blend better with the other ingredients, giving you a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Gently fold your ingredients just until combined.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, the bread may be denser and have a nuttier flavor. You might want to start with a 50/50 blend of both flours for the best texture.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Just fold them in with the zucchini.
How do I freeze lemon zucchini bread?
To freeze the bread, ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. Label it with the date and store it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Can I make mini loaves with this recipe?
Yes! You can use small loaf pans and reduce the baking time to around 30-35 minutes. Just keep an eye on them, as they can bake faster than a regular loaf!
Conclusion
Making this lemon zucchini bread with glaze is not just about baking; it’s about bringing together flavors and textures in a perfect harmony that delights your senses. You’ve crafted a loaf that’s moist, tender, and bursting with citrus goodness. Whether shared with family or enjoyed during some quiet me-time, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two!) of this fantastic bread. Happy baking!
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Luscious Lemon Zucchini Bread with Irresistible Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
Indulge in Luscious Lemon Zucchini Bread with an Irresistible Glaze Perfect recipe for a moist flavorful treat that delights 154 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g