This Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful twist on a classic zucchini bread recipe. Infused with the refreshing zest and juice of lemons, and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, this bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the day. The addition of zucchini not only adds moisture but also sneaks in some extra vegetables, making this a somewhat guilt-free treat!
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Begin by grating the zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy bread. Set the prepared zucchini aside.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread later.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until well combined and slightly pale in color. Add in the vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
6. Fold in the Zucchini:
- Gently fold in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The zucchini will add moisture and a subtle flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
7. Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should have risen nicely.
8. Cool the Bread:
- Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
- While the bread is cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more lemon juice for a thinner glaze.
10. Glaze the Bread:
- Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing the bread. The glaze will add an extra layer of sweetness and a burst of lemon flavor, complementing the flavors in the bread.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the Lemon Zucchini Bread and serve. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert. The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Lemon Zucchini Bread:
- Grate the Zucchini Finely: Use the fine side of a box grater to grate the zucchini. This will help the zucchini blend into the bread, adding moisture without being too noticeable.
- Dry the Zucchini: Removing the excess moisture from the zucchini is key to preventing the bread from becoming too wet and dense.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a tougher bread with a denser texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential for the best flavor. The zest adds a concentrated lemon flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bread.
- Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker or thinner glaze, adjust the amount of powdered sugar or lemon juice accordingly. You can also add a pinch of lemon zest to the glaze for extra zing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of zucchini and Greek yogurt ensures that the bread stays moist, while the lemon adds a fresh and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar.
- Versatile: This bread is perfect for any time of day. Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. It’s also great for sharing with friends and family.
- Healthy Twist: The addition of zucchini not only adds moisture but also a dose of vegetables, making this a slightly healthier treat. The Greek yogurt adds protein and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time. It’s a great way to use up any extra zucchini you have on hand.
Lemon Zucchini Bread with Lemon Glaze is a delightful, refreshing take on traditional zucchini bread. The bright lemon flavor, combined with the moist, tender crumb of the bread, makes it a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast option, a snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea, or a dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy!
