Zesty Lemon Quick Bread: A Burst of Citrus Flavor

This zesty lemon quick bread is the ultimate treat for citrus lovers. With a rich lemon flavor in every bite, this moist bread is easy to make using simple ingredients. A tangy lemon glaze drizzled on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this quick bread is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Quick Bread

For the Quick Bread

• 1 box lemon cake mix, 15.25 oz (430 g)
• 1 box instant lemon pudding mix, 3.4 oz (100 g)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 mL)
• 3/4 cup cold water (180 mL)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (60 mL)
• 4 large eggs

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (180 g)
• 1–2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (15–30 mL)

Instructions for Making Zesty Lemon Quick Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two loaf pans to prevent sticking. Set the pans aside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, instant pudding mix, vegetable oil, cold water, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and eggs.
2. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture for 4 minutes. The batter will be thick and creamy.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each loaf comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the Bread

1. Remove the loaves from the oven and place the pans on wire racks to cool for 5 minutes.
2. Carefully remove the bread from the pans and allow it to cool completely on the racks.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
2. Gradually add more lemon juice, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the glaze is thin enough to drizzle.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

1. Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread while it’s still on the racks, letting the excess glaze drip down the sides.
2. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled.
• Thick Batter: Don’t worry if the batter seems thick—it ensures the bread will be moist and dense.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.