Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf (Dairy-Free)
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Savor the bright and zesty flavors of this Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf, perfect for a refreshing treat that meets your dietary needs. This moist and tender loaf is made without dairy and bursting with fresh lemon juice and zest, making it an ideal option for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Enjoy a slice with tea or coffee, and delight in the simple yet delightful taste of homemade goodness.
This gluten-free lemon loaf is more than just a treat; it's a delightful experience that combines the refreshing taste of lemons with a moist, dairy-free cake texture. Perfect for any time of day!
Delightful Flavor Profile
The Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf is truly a celebration of citrus flavors! Each bite bursts with the refreshing tang of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the aromatic zest that elevates the loaf to new heights. This is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that can brighten your day. Ideal for both casual snacking and special occasions, it's a recipe that anyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Using gluten-free all-purpose flour ensures that this loaf remains light and fluffy, while the dairy-free butter contributes to its moist texture. Together with the sweet and tart balance brought by the sugar and lemon, this cake creates a memorable flavor profile that appeals to everyone, whether they are gluten-free or not.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion. Serve it as a delightful breakfast option paired with your favorite morning beverage, or present it as a splendid dessert after dinner. It’s also an excellent addition to tea parties, picnics, or family gatherings, as everyone will appreciate its lightness and refreshing flavor.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this lemon loaf is a fantastic choice that’s sure to impress. It's an easy-to-make option that yields generous servings, so there's plenty to go around. Plus, its bright appearance adds a cheerful touch to any table setting.
Healthier Indulgence
Indulging in sweet treats doesn’t have to mean sacrificing health. This Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf is lower in fat compared to traditional loaf recipes, mainly due to the inclusion of dairy-free alternatives. The use of almond milk enhances the loaf's nutrition while keeping it moist, offering a healthier option without compromising on taste.
Moreover, lemons are a great source of vitamin C, and incorporating them into this recipe provides a natural boost to your immunity. This focus on wholesome ingredients means you can enjoy this delightful dessert without the guilt, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup dairy-free butter, softened
- 3/4 cup almond milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, beat together the dairy-free butter and sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, almond milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your fresh slice of gluten-free lemon loaf!
Storage Tips
To keep your Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf fresh, ensure it cools completely before storing it. You can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, keeping air out to preserve its moisture. If stored properly, it should stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the loaf. Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature, or pop slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Variations to Try
While this Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors! For a berry twist, add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries to the batter before baking. These berries not only add color but also enhance the moisture and fruity flavor of your loaf.
You can also try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds for a classic lemon-poppyseed combination, or fold in some chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and crunch. Each variation offers a unique taste experience while maintaining the core essence of this refreshing lemon loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your gluten-free lemon loaf plain or elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish. For an extra burst of flavor, consider drizzling a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top—the ideal finishing touch that adds both sweetness and tang.
Pair your slice with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent treat. This dessert can seamlessly transition from a light snack to an impressive dessert, making it perfect for all occasions and every palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different flour?
Yes, as long as it’s a gluten-free flour blend, it should work fine.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf (Dairy-Free)
Savor the bright and zesty flavors of this Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf, perfect for a refreshing treat that meets your dietary needs. This moist and tender loaf is made without dairy and bursting with fresh lemon juice and zest, making it an ideal option for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Enjoy a slice with tea or coffee, and delight in the simple yet delightful taste of homemade goodness.
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup dairy-free butter, softened
- 3/4 cup almond milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, beat together the dairy-free butter and sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, almond milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 per slice
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 2g