Lavender Lemon Loaf

Indulge in the exquisite blend of flavors with our Lemon Lavender Loaf. This moist and tender treat is infused with delicate dried lavender buds, harmonizing perfectly with zesty lemon notes. A luscious lemon glaze coats the loaf, creating a tantalizingly sweet-tart crust. To elevate this delightful creation, a velvety lavender icing graces the top, adding a subtle floral essence. Each slice offers a delightful contrast between the citrusy tang and the gentle floral undertones. Perfect for afternoon tea or as an elegant dessert, this Lemon Lavender Loaf promises to be a memorable and irresistible treat for any occasion.

Set the Scene: In conjunction with the delightful Lavender Lemon Loaf, I recommend integrating a self-care strategy such as practicing relaxation techniques. Before you begin baking, find a calm and peaceful space where you can fully immerse yourself in the process. Take a few moments to engage in deep breathing exercises or meditation to help center your mind and release any tension or stress. As you prepare the ingredients and mix the batter, focus on the soothing aroma of lavender and the fresh scent of lemon, allowing them to calm your senses. While the loaf is baking, take a break and engage in a relaxing activity such as reading a book, listening to calming music, or taking a leisurely stroll in nature. Once the Lavender Lemon Loaf is ready, savor each slice mindfully, allowing yourself to fully enjoy the delicate flavors and the nourishment it provides.

Vibe: Pair the Lemon Lavender Loaf with the soothing and soulful sounds of Jhené Aiko's song "Eternal Sunshine." As you savor each bite of this exquisite treat, let the music transport you to a place of tranquility and pure bliss. Just like the song's ethereal melodies, the Lemon Lavender Loaf promises to take your taste buds on a journey of delightful flavors, leaving you feeling uplifted and at peace. Enjoy this perfect combination of delectable tastes and soulful tunes for a truly enchanting experience. 🍋🌸🎶 #LemonLavenderLoaf #EternalSunshine #JhenéAiko #SoulfulTreats #BlissfulBites

Booze: Enjoy the combination of Lemon Lavender Loaf and Moscato d'Asti for a delightful indulgence. The light, sweet, and slightly sparkling characteristics of Moscato d'Asti complement the citrusy and floral notes of the loaf beautifully. The wine's fruity and aromatic profile, with hints of peach, apricot, and orange blossom, would harmonize with the lemon and lavender flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience. The refreshing and effervescent qualities of Moscato d'Asti make it an excellent choice to balance the sweetness of the glaze and icing, making it a truly delightful pairing for this delectable dessert.🍋🌸🍷

Ingredients

For the Lemon Lavender Loaf:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds (food-grade)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Lavender Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon dried culinary lavender buds (food-grade)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and dried lavender buds. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Then add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

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

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.

8. While the loaf is baking, prepare the lemon glaze by heating the lemon juice and granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and then set it aside.

9. Once the loaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Poke several holes on the top of the loaf using a toothpick or skewer.

10. Pour the prepared lemon glaze over the warm loaf, allowing it to soak in and create a tangy, sweet crust.

11. Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before removing it.

12. To make the lavender icing, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Crush the dried lavender buds slightly and add them to the icing, stirring to incorporate.

13. Drizzle the lavender icing over the cooled lemon loaf, allowing it to drip down the sides.

14. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.