Zesty Lemon Rhubarb Loaf Drizzled with Sweet Citrus Glaze

Zesty Lemon Rhubarb Loaf Drizzled with Sweet Citrus Glaze is a beautifully tender bake that brings together bright lemon flavour, juicy rhubarb and a sweet, delicate citrus glaze. The soft crumb has just the right balance of sweetness and tanginess, while the fresh rhubarb adds little bursts of flavour throughout every slice.

Simple enough for an afternoon treat yet special enough to serve when guests come over, this lemon rhubarb loaf is a lovely way to enjoy fresh rhubarb. Once completely cooled, the loaf is finished with a smooth lemon glaze that adds an extra touch of sweetness and a gorgeous glossy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and refreshing lemon flavour.
• Soft, tender crumb with juicy pieces of rhubarb.
• Finished with a simple sweet citrus glaze.
• Easy to prepare with everyday baking ingredients.
• Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea or dessert.

Recipe Information

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Lemon Rhubarb Loaf

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb

For the Citrus Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1½ tbsp lemon juice

How to Make Lemon Rhubarb Loaf

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang to make the finished loaf easier to remove.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps create a soft texture in the finished loaf.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Add the sour cream or plain yogurt and mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing the batter.

Gently fold in the chopped fresh rhubarb, distributing it evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before adding the glaze.

Step 8: Make the Citrus Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and glossy.

Once the loaf has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to gently run down the sides.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Add fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity accompaniment.
• Serve with a spoonful of whipped cream or plain yoghurt.
• Enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack or light dessert.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh rhubarb: Freshly chopped rhubarb provides the best texture throughout the loaf.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter only until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
• Cool before glazing: Make sure the loaf is completely cool so the glaze stays on top instead of melting into the loaf.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the centre before removing the loaf from the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use plain yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes. The recipe allows for either sour cream or plain yogurt.

Can I use frozen rhubarb?

The recipe specifies fresh rhubarb, so the provided instructions are based on using chopped fresh rhubarb.

When should I add the glaze?

Allow the loaf to cool completely before drizzling over the lemon glaze. This gives you a cleaner finish and helps the glaze remain on the surface.

How do I know when the loaf is ready?

The loaf is ready when a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean after approximately 50–55 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

Zesty Lemon Rhubarb Loaf Drizzled with Sweet Citrus Glaze is a simple homemade bake with a lovely balance of bright lemon, tangy rhubarb and gentle sweetness. The tender loaf is easy to prepare, and the fresh lemon glaze provides the perfect finishing touch.

Whether served with an afternoon cup of tea, shared with family or enjoyed as a simple dessert, this rhubarb loaf is a delicious way to bring fresh, fruity flavour to the table.

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