Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Lemon Loaf Batter:

• In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). You can use an electric mixer for this.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

3. Bake the Lemon Loaf:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with a piece of aluminum foil after 30 minutes.

4. Make the Lemon Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.

5. Glaze the Loaf:

• Once the lemon loaf has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Tips:

• The loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and makes for a great dessert or afternoon snack.
• For extra lemony flavor, you can poke small holes in the loaf with a skewer and pour some lemon syrup (a mix of lemon juice and sugar) over it before glazing.

The Glazed Lemon Loaf is soft and tender with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it an ideal treat for lemon lovers!