20 Delicious Lemon Bread Recipes Perfect for Any Occasion

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March 31, 2025

Are you looking for a delicious and refreshing baked good to brighten up any occasion? Look no further than lemon bread! With its tangy citrus flavor and moist, fluffy texture, it’s the perfect treat to serve at breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack. And the best part? There are countless ways to mix things up with different add-ins and flavors.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering lemon bread recipes that are sure to satisfy your citrus cravings. From classic loaves to creative twists featuring blueberries, poppy seeds, and more, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.

Classic Lemon Loaf with Glaze

Classic Lemon Loaf with Glaze
Brighten up your day with this tangy and sweet classic lemon loaf, topped with a rich glaze.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze:

– Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
– Drizzle over cooled loaf and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon Blueberry Bread
Brighten up your breakfast or snack time with this moist and flavorful Lemon Blueberry Bread. The combination of tangy lemon zest, sweet blueberries, and a hint of citrus will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Brighten up your day with this delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, infused with the citrusy zing of lemon zest and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for a snack or as a accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Coconut Bread

Lemon Coconut Bread
Brighten up your morning with a loaf of Lemon Coconut Bread, infused with the warmth of coconut and the brightness of lemon zest.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in shredded coconut.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Zucchini Bread

Lemon Zucchini Bread
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and moist lemon zucchini bread, perfect for a springtime treat or snack. This easy-to-make recipe combines the sweetness of lemons with the subtle flavor of zucchini, resulting in a deliciously citrusy loaf.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium)
– Optional: lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and lemon juice; stir until combined.
4. Fold in grated zucchini and pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Lemon Yogurt Bread

Lemon Yogurt Bread
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon yogurt bread recipe, perfect for a springtime treat or as a sweet breakfast option. The combination of tangy lemon zest and creamy yogurt creates a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Almond Bread

Lemon Almond Bread
Brighten up your morning with a refreshing loaf of Lemon Almond Bread, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Lemon Chia Seed Bread

Lemon Chia Seed Bread
Lemon Chia Seed Bread: A refreshing twist on traditional bread, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of chia seeds with the brightness of lemon zest and juice.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine chia seeds, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir in yogurt and egg until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Optional: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving, if desired.

Lemon Lavender Bread

Lemon Lavender Bread
Add a touch of sunshine to your day with this sweet and savory bread, infused with the citrusy zing of lemon and the floral charm of lavender.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
3. Add honey, flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lavender buds.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Ricotta Bread

Lemon Ricotta Bread
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with this refreshing lemon ricotta bread. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy morning at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in melted butter and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Ginger Bread

Lemon Ginger Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the warmth of ginger with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. With its aromatic spices and tangy citrus flavor, this Lemon Ginger Bread is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Olive Oil Bread

Lemon Olive Oil Bread
This refreshing bread combines the warmth of olive oil with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 egg, beaten (optional for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Add yeast and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Lemon Honey Bread

Lemon Honey Bread
Brighten up your day with this delightful Lemon Honey Bread, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet honey creates a flavorful and aromatic loaf that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together yeast, warm water, lemon juice, and honey. Let mixture sit for 5 minutes.
4. Add yeast mixture to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Beat in eggs and melted butter.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Lemon Rosemary Bread

Lemon Rosemary Bread
Brighten up your bread basket with this refreshing twist on classic yeast bread, infused with the zesty flavor of lemon and the herbaceousness of rosemary. Perfect for a warm evening or as a side to your favorite soups and salads.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, lemon juice, flour, salt, and rosemary to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Lemon Pistachio Bread

Lemon Pistachio Bread
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon pistachio bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, lemon juice, and chopped pistachios. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Cardamom Bread

Lemon Cardamom Bread
This sweet bread is infused with the warmth of cardamom and the brightness of lemon, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, lemon juice, and cardamom to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in the prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Sour Cream Bread

Lemon Sour Cream Bread
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with this refreshing lemon sour cream bread recipe, bursting with citrusy flavor and tender crumb.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, sour cream, eggs, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Thyme Bread

Lemon Thyme Bread
Brighten up your day with a warm slice of Lemon Thyme Bread, infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtle earthiness of thyme. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, lemon juice, and thyme to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Lemon Vanilla Bean Bread

Lemon Vanilla Bean Bread
Brighten up your day with the perfect blend of citrus and sweetness in this Lemon Vanilla Bean Bread recipe. This moist and flavorful loaf is infused with the warmth of vanilla beans and the zesty zest of lemons, making it a delightful breakfast or snack option.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in lemon zest and vanilla bean paste (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread

Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread
Brighten up your morning with this sweet and tangy swirl bread, infused with the zest of lemon and the creaminess of cream cheese.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, warm water, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cream cheese mixture: Beat softened cream cheese with lemon juice until smooth. Cut in half lengthwise.
7. Place one rope on the prepared baking sheet, then place the cream cheese mixture along the center of the rope, leaving 1-inch borders.
8. Top with the second rope, pressing gently to seal.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired). Serve warm.

Summary

Get ready to brighten up your baking with these 20 delicious lemon bread recipes! From classic loaves to creative twists, each recipe showcases the versatility and flavor of lemon. Try the Classic Lemon Loaf with Glaze for a traditional treat or mix it up with Lemon Blueberry Bread or Lemon Poppy Seed Bread. For added texture and nutrition, explore options like Lemon Zucchini Bread or Lemon Chia Seed Bread. Whatever the occasion, you’ll find a perfect recipe among these sweet and tangy lemon breads.

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