Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

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Lemon Curd Loaf Cake: 8 Irresistible Ways to Savor Zesty Joy

Bright, cheerful, and bursting with flavor, Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is pure happiness in every bite. This zesty creation delivers a radiant golden crumb swirled with vibrant lemon curd, delighting your senses with its energizing aroma and lively taste. If you adore cakes with a luscious texture and a refreshing citrus pop, you’re about to discover your new favorite dessert. Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is more than a recipe—it’s a memorable experience of comfort and sunshine. For more inspiring lemon ideas, peek at our Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

  • Effortless preparation yet truly unforgettable results
  • Eye-catching golden crumb with an irresistible glossy swirl
  • Luscious aroma fills your kitchen, igniting joyful anticipation
  • Ultra-moist loaf with each vibrant, tangy-infused bite
  • Pleases both relaxed brunch tables and special dessert moments
  • Adaptable ingredients for your creative cravings
  • Perfect make-ahead treat—flavor deepens overnight
  • The ultimate balance of sweet, tart, and creamy delights

Ingredients for Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

Gathering the right ingredients for Lemon Curd Loaf Cake makes all the difference—each element contributes its own magic. Here’s your flavor-packed line-up:

  • 188 grams (1 ½ cup) All-Purpose Flour – The tender foundation for a delicate crumb
  • 1 ½ Teaspoon Baking Powder – Ensures a gentle, enticing rise
  • ½ Teaspoon Salt – Amplifies every zesty note and balances sweetness
  • 200 grams (1 Cup) Granulated Sugar – For a satisfying, sweet harmony
  • 2 Tablespoons Lemon Zest (About 2 medium lemons) – Intensely aromatic, delivers fresh excitement
  • 4oz (½ Cup) Unsalted Butter, at room temperature – Adds sumptuous richness and alluring moisture
  • 2oz (¼ Cup) Vegetable Oil – Maintains ultimate plushness
  • 2 Large Eggs, at room temperature – Provide lift and luscious structure
  • 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice – The heart of lively citrus brilliance
  • 4oz (½ cup) Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – For creamy tang and soft crumb
  • 4oz (½ cup) Lemon Curd – Magic swirls that burst with sunshine flavor

For the vibrant Lemon Glaze:

  • 125 grams (1 Cup) powdered sugar, sifted – Silky, elegant base for your glaze
  • 3 Tablespoons lemon juice – Intensifies the citrusy sparkle
  • 1 Teaspoon Lemon Zest – Dials up the fragrance
  • Splash of Cream – Luxurious finish for smooth drizzling

Every ingredient is carefully selected to elevate the Lemon Curd Loaf Cake into pure zest-filled joy.

Necessary Tools

Unlock the full potential of your Lemon Curd Loaf Cake by using the right tools—each one ensures precision, ease, and delight in baking:

  • 9×5 Loaf Pan – Promises sleek shape and even baking
  • Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer – Delivers irresistible fluff and a cloud-light crumb
  • Medium Mixing Bowls – For blending and combining with effortless style
  • Microplane or Zester – Unleashes aromatic oils for vibrant lemon zest
  • Citrus Juicer – Maximizes every drop of tangy lemon juice
  • Silicone Spatula – Helps you fold batter gently, preserving the cake’s plushness
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – Guarantees accuracy for sumptuous results
  • Pastry Brush – Optional, but perfect for greasing or finishing touches
  • Butter Knife – To create alluring swirls with the lemon curd

With these reliable tools, every Lemon Curd Loaf Cake you bake is destined for brilliance.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

The Lemon Curd Loaf Cake welcomes your imagination. If you’re feeling adventurous or need to swap ingredients, countless opportunities await. Unlock these radiant ideas for your next bake:

  • Flour: For a more delicate texture, use cake flour in place of all-purpose flour and notice the difference in crumb.
  • Oil & Butter: Prefer an extra touch of richness? A splash of melted coconut oil complements the lemon beautifully.
  • Lemon Zest: Orange or lime zest can transform this cake, creating new layers of refreshing citrus intensity.
  • Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: If you love an ultra-tender cake, try a thick, full-fat plain yogurt for creamy depth, or even a velvety mascarpone cheese for a decadent twist.
  • Lemon Curd: Store-bought curd works in a pinch, but making your own lets you control the sweetness and tang. Don’t have lemon curd? Raspberry or passionfruit curd will surprise and delight, adding vivid color to each slice!
  • Gluten-Free Swap: Use your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a naturally tender version that everyone can enjoy.
  • Extra Citrus: Amp up zest and juice for those who crave bold lemon intensity. For a softer profile, use Meyer lemons for a honeyed, balanced flavor.
  • Add Ins: Swirl in a handful of blueberries or poppy seeds for an extra touch of fun and color. The cake pairs harmoniously; for inspiration, see our Buttermilk Blueberry Breakfast Cake for a breakfast-appropriate spin!
  • Spices: A dash of ground ginger or a sprinkle of cardamom creates a nuanced, warming undertone that elevates citrus vibes.
  • Vegan Variant: Substitute eggs with a commercial vegan egg replacer and use coconut yogurt for a nourishing, plant-based delight.
  • Sugar Alternatives: Coconut sugar can be swapped for a gentle caramel undertone, or use a touch of honey in the glaze for added fragrance.

Celebrate adaptability and let your Lemon Curd Loaf Cake reflect your mood, pantry, and the joy of creative baking. If you love customizable treats, you’ll also enjoy our No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls.

How to Make Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

Preparing Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is an adventure in flavor—every step fills your kitchen with radiant citrus aromas and excitement about the treat to come. With each swirl, you’re crafting a stunning, golden crumb enveloped in lush, tangy ribbons of lemon curd.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) for ideal, golden results. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, lining it if you desire easy removal for those glorious post-bake moments.

Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry trio brings structure while staying irresistibly tender.

Step 3: Infuse Sugar and Zest

In the bowl of an electric mixer, vigorously combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest for 3–4 minutes. This step releases fragrant oils for maximum citrus impact, turning your sugar into an aromatic delight.

Step 4: Cream Butter, Add Oil

Add the room-temperature unsalted butter and continue mixing for another 3–4 minutes. The result is a pillowy, cloud-like mixture. Blend in vegetable oil for added plushness—about 1–2 minutes does the trick.

Step 5: Blend in Eggs and Lemon Goodness

Add eggs, one at a time, mixing to fully incorporate. Pour in the fresh lemon juice; feel the mixture become even more luscious. Blend in Greek yogurt or sour cream, creating a sumptuous base ready for flour.

Step 6: Fold and Swirl

Gently fold your flour mixture into the wet ingredients with a silicone spatula—don’t overmix; just blend until combined, preserving the cake’s delicate texture. Spoon a third of the batter into your prepared pan, then add a third of the lemon curd in succulent dollops. Swirl gently with a butter knife for that mesmerizing marbled effect. Repeat two more times, finishing with the final curd on top.

Step 7: Bake to Sensational Perfection

Bake for 30–40 minutes. To prevent the curd from darkening, tent with foil and bake another 10–20 minutes—test with a toothpick for doneness. The aroma is pure bliss.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Let the loaf cool in its pan for 30 minutes, invert, then cool for another 30 on a rack. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, zest, and a splash of cream. Drizzle generously when completely cool, watching lemony rivers cascade down the loaf.

How to Serve Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

For a show-stopping presentation, slice your Lemon Curd Loaf Cake thick, revealing its vibrant swirl and golden crumb. Serve on a sunlit brunch table alongside chilled berries and softly whipped cream—guaranteed to create moments of pure joy. Warm it slightly for a melt-in-your-mouth texture, or savor at room temperature for a comforting afternoon treat. For festive occasions, dust with powdered sugar and pair with artisan tea for an inviting and heartfelt finish. Indulge in its lively aroma as you share with loved ones—every slice delivers a burst of happiness.

Pro Tips & Tricks

Unleash the full brilliance of your Lemon Curd Loaf Cake with these expert secrets, using tested expertise to spark baking confidence!

  • Always zest lemons before juicing for maximum flavor payoff.
  • Ensure butter, eggs, and yogurt are room temperature—they emulsify for a silkier crumb.
  • For picture-perfect swirls, create deep, gentle curves with your knife—avoid over-mixing for a striking pattern.
  • Use quality lemon curd—homemade elevates taste, but premium store-bought delivers luscious results in a pinch.
  • Tent with foil as soon as the top browns—your curd stays radiant, not dark.
  • Cool thoroughly before glazing—the result: a crackly, irresistible finish.
  • Serve slightly warm for ultimate comfort, or chill for a refreshing twist.
  • If you adore fruity cakes, try our Best Peach Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting for another showstopper!

With these insights, every Lemon Curd Loaf Cake becomes a radiant work of art.

Storage Instructions

Enjoy your Lemon Curd Loaf Cake fresh, but know it keeps beautifully! Wrap cooled slices snugly in plastic or store in an airtight container. This loaf retains its plush texture for up to 3 days at room temperature. For extended bliss, refrigerate for up to 5 days—the tangy lemon keeps the crumb lively. To freeze, wrap entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic, then foil; thaw at room temperature, restoring its delectable crumb and vibrant flavor.

General Information

Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is a charming blend of homey comfort and bakery-worthy allure. Its origins pay homage to traditional tea loaves, with a zesty twist that makes it a contemporary favorite. This recipe’s quick prep and crowd-pleasing flavor mean it fits seamlessly into busy weekdays and dazzling celebrations alike. Lemon’s mood-boosting qualities are celebrated across the world for good reason—when combined with the plush, melt-in-your-mouth loaf, you get pure culinary delight.

FAQs

How do you achieve a moist crumb in Lemon Curd Loaf Cake?

The secret lies in a balance of butter, oil, and Greek yogurt or sour cream—these luxurious elements combine with careful mixing, yielding a delightfully rich, velvety texture.

My cake’s crumb is dense, what did I do wrong?

Dense texture often results from overmixing the flour or using cold ingredients. Be gentle when folding dry into wet and always use room-temperature ingredients for the most airy, plush outcome.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Lemon Curd Loaf Cake’s flavor deepens as it rests. Bake and store up to two days ahead, glazing on the day of serving for maximum freshness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Lemon Curd Loaf Cake?

Store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate if your home is warm. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped slices.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double ingredients and bake in two loaf pans for even cooking. Check doneness with a toothpick and rotate pans halfway through for uniform results.

What to Serve With Lemon Curd Loaf Cake

For a blissful dessert spread, pair Lemon Curd Loaf Cake with softly whipped cream, creamy vanilla gelato, or a scoop of tangy frozen yogurt. A handful of fresh berries (especially blueberries or raspberries) adds juicy contrast. Enjoy with a fragrant cup of Earl Grey or herbal teas for maximum comfort. If you love lemony treats, you’ll also be enchanted by our Boston Cream Poke Cake for another luminous dessert adventure. Or set out a selection of fruit-forward cakes for effortless celebrations.

Conclusion

From its inviting golden crumb to the luscious ripple of lemon curd, Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is an ode to joy—radiant, lively, and unforgettable. Whether you serve it for brunch, afternoon tea, or a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe promises to bring sunshine and happiness to your table. Savor the bold zest, the tender bite, and the pure pleasure of homemade baking.

Nutritional Information

Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is a luscious yet balanced treat—each generous slice offers energizing brightness from fresh lemons, plus wholesome depth from eggs and yogurt. Enjoy the benefits of real citrus, moderate sweetness, and a touch of comfort all in one stunning bite.

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Lemon Curd Loaf Cake


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  • Total Time: 85 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Lemon Curd Loaf Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with a moist and fluffy loaf. This cake features a luscious ribbon of lemon curd running through it, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for tea time or any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its bright citrus notes and tender crumb. Enjoy it fresh or toasted for a warm treat that brightens any day. Ideal for sharing, it serves eight slices of sunshine.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 188 grams (1 ½ cup) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 ½ Teaspoon Baking Powder
  • ½ Teaspoon Salt
  • 200 grams (1 Cup) Granulated Sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons Lemon Zest (Roughly 2 medium lemons)
  • 4oz (½ Cup) Unsalted Butter, at room temp
  • 2oz (¼ Cup) Vegetable Oil
  • 2 Large Eggs, at room temp
  • 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 4oz (½ cup) Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
  • 4oz (½ cup) Lemon Curd
  • 125 grams (1 Cup) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 3 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 Teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • Splash of Cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350F/180C and grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a bowl of an electric mixer combine sugar and lemon zest for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the butter and mix for 3-4 minutes until nice and fluffy. Then add the oil and mix for another minute or two.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time. Mix in lemon juice. Add the Greek yogurt, mix to combine. Gently fold in the dry mixture.
  6. Place one third of the lemon loaf batter in the prepared pan and place one third of the lemon curd in dollops on top. Use a butter knife to slightly swirl the curd, repeat two more times ending with lemon curd on top.
  7. Bake for 30-40 minutes then place a piece of foil on top to prevent the lemon curd from turning dark, bake for an additional 10-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before inverting out of the pan, then let cool for an additional 30 minutes before starting the glaze.
  9. For the glaze: combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and heavy cream. Drizzle on top when completely cool.

Notes

For different flavors, consider substituting lime or orange zest for a citrus twist. This loaf can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for a week. The unglazed cake freezes well for up to three months. If the batter is too thick, incorporate a bit more yogurt. Ensure the cake fully cools before glazing to avoid melting.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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