Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving something bright, tangy, and utterly delightful, the Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe is here to brighten your day. This loaf perfectly balances the tartness of fresh rhubarb and lemon with a tender, moist crumb, all beautifully topped with a sweet, zesty glaze. Every bite feels like a sunny afternoon, and it’s such a joy to bake and share with friends or family. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be your go-to for cozy mornings, coffee breaks, or anytime you need a little citrus happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect texture, flavor, and that irresistible color in this Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe. Each component plays an important role from moisture to zing and even the loaf’s beautiful crumb.

• 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb, so make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the loaf just enough to balance the tartness without overpowering.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your loaf, providing structure and that perfect cake-like softness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise nicely and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic elements for optimal lift and a tender bite.
• 2 eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture for that luscious texture.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice: Packs the loaf with zesty brightness, awakening all the flavors.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds an aromatic lemony punch that’s unmistakable and fresh.
• 1 cup rhubarb, chopped: Brings that signature tangy flavor and lovely pops of pink color throughout.
• For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar and 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice—creates a sweet and tart finishing touch that seals the deal.

How to Make Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan well, so the cake releases smoothly after baking and keeps its form perfectly. Getting this prep done sets the stage for a flawless bake.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for infusing air into the batter, ensuring your lemon rhubarb loaf has that delightfully soft texture we all crave.

Step 3: Beat in the Eggs

Beat the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time. Doing this slowly allows the eggs to fully incorporate without curdling, keeping your batter smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add Citrus

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the zest of one lemon. Stir gently to combine the citrus flavor into the batter, giving it that unmistakable fresh, tangy sparkle.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, so your loaf rises uniformly.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix here—overworking the batter can make the loaf dense, and we want tender and airy every time.

Step 7: Fold in Rhubarb

Carefully fold in the chopped rhubarb until it’s evenly spread throughout the batter. These tangy pieces will add bursts of flavor and a beautiful pink hue with every slice.

Step 8: Bake the Loaf

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean. The smell filling your kitchen now is pure magic.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes—it helps it set up so it doesn’t break apart. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before moving on to the glaze.

Step 10: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle it generously over the cooled loaf. This glaze sets with a perfect balance of sweet and tart, bringing the entire Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe to its glorious finish.

How to Serve Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a few fresh lemon zest twists or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios add a lovely texture contrast and a pop of color that elevate the loaf’s presentation effortlessly.

Side Dishes

This loaf shines with a cup of good coffee or a bright green tea, but it’s also wonderful alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream to highlight its tangy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices on pretty dessert plates with a small sprig of mint or edible flowers for special occasions. You can even layer it with fresh berries for a delightful lemon rhubarb tiramisu-inspired dessert twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it covered prevents the glaze from drying out and the loaf from becoming crumbly.

Freezing

You can freeze this loaf either whole or sliced. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, or pop them in a toaster oven. This quick reheating brings back that fresh-baked warmth that makes every bite cozy and comforting.

FAQs

Can I substitute strawberries for rhubarb?

Absolutely! Strawberries offer a sweeter alternative, creating a different but still delicious fruity balance with the lemon. Just chop them similarly and fold them in the same way.

What if I don’t have fresh rhubarb?

Frozen rhubarb works fine—just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the batter to avoid making it too wet.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a lovely finish of sweetness and tang that complements the tart rhubarb and lemon beautifully, but if you prefer less sugar, the loaf is still delightful on its own.

How do I get the loaf to bake evenly?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated and use an oven thermometer if possible. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking, as that can cause uneven temperature fluctuations.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace the butter with vegan butter and the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will remain wonderfully citrusy and fresh.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Lemon Rhubarb Loaf with Glaze Recipe always feels like a little celebration of spring and sunshine, no matter the season. Its bright flavors, tender texture, and easy elegance make it a standout on any table. I encourage you to dive in and make it your own—it’s truly a loaf that spreads joy with every slice.

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