Tea Party Lemon Bread
Bright, citrusy loaf with a sweet lemon glaze, perfect for afternoon tea or brunch gatherings, offering a fresh, buttery bite that delights both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Cream margarine, 3/4 cup sugar and lemon rind, then beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in flour mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour.
- Stir until smooth after each addition.
- Turn batter into a buttered 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Stir 1/2 cup sugar and lemon juice together and spread over top of hot bread.
- Remove from pan after cooling, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're out of homogenized milk, whole milk or almond milk can work as substitutes. To elevate the lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract. Make sure to sift your flour and baking powder for a lighter texture. Don't skip the sugar glaze; it adds a delightful sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the lemon bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect addition to any tea party. Consider serving it alongside Honey Date Bran Muffins for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or briefly toast it for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Party Lemon Bread contains roughly 159 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 530mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different kind of flour?
Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly. If you want a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed to achieve the right batter consistency.
What can I do if my bread doesn't rise?
If your lemon bread doesn't rise, it may be due to expired baking powder or not properly creaming the butter and sugar. Make sure your ingredients are fresh and that you beat the mixture well to incorporate air. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking.
Can I freeze lemon bread?
Absolutely! To freeze lemon bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and warm it up before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).