Name: Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt ((full fat or 2%)); 0.75 cups sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 lemons ((zested)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 cup coconut oil ((melted)); 1.5 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

There’s something undeniably refreshing about a slice of Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf. This delightful treat perfectly balances tangy lemon with the creamy goodness of Greek yogurt, resulting in a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or as a sweet afternoon snack, this Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf is sure to brighten your day.

Top Reasons to Make Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf.

If you’re still on the fence about whipping up this scrumptious loaf, let me share a few compelling reasons to dive right in:

Moisture Galore: The Greek yogurt adds an incredible level of moisture, ensuring each slice is soft and tender.
Bright Flavor: With the zest and juice of fresh lemons, this loaf is bursting with a citrusy zing that’s refreshing and uplifting.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, making this a convenient recipe to throw together.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, this loaf fits right in.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add poppy seeds, blueberries, or even a glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

What You’ll Gather

Before you get started, let’s make sure you have everything ready to go. Here’s what you need for the Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat or 2%)
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs
2 lemons (zested)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Hardware & Gadgets

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing the batter and a small bowl for the glaze.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a perfect loaf.
Whisk: For combining your dry and wet ingredients seamlessly.
Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works best for this recipe.
Cooling Rack: To cool your loaf after baking, ensuring it doesn’t become soggy.

Cooking Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf: The Process

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delightful loaf. Follow these steps for the perfect Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your loaf bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Lightly grease your loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 6: Pour into the Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly domed.

Step 8: Cool

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf for a sweet, tangy finish.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to make a swap, here are some easy alternatives:

Greek Yogurt: Can be replaced with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Coconut Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if preferred.
Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a healthier option.
Eggs: Replace with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a vegan version.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best bakers can encounter a few bumps in the road. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Dense Loaf: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined.
Loaf Too Dry: Make sure not to overbake. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
Flavorless Bread: Ensure you’re using fresh lemons for zest and juice; they make a huge difference in flavor.
Sticking to the Pan: Grease your pan well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf is perfect for meal prep or batch baking! Here’s how to do it right:

You can make the loaf ahead of time and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes! You can use low-fat Greek yogurt, but full-fat yogurt will give you a richer flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons yield a better flavor and aroma.

Can I add other flavors to this loaf?

Absolutely! Consider adding poppy seeds, blueberries, or even a hint of lavender for a unique twist.

How do I know when the loaf is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown.

In Closing

The Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf is not just a baked good; it’s a delightful experience that combines the warmth of home baking with the invigorating flavor of fresh lemons. Each slice brings a taste of sunshine, making it a perfect companion for any time of day. With its moist texture, bright flavor, and simple ingredients, this loaf will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake a loaf that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every bite of this Greek Yogurt Lemon Loaf!