Lemon bread is a beloved treat, but making it from scratch can be time-consuming. Many of us want to enjoy this zesty delight without the fuss.
That’s where cake mix comes to the rescue! You can quickly whip up tasty lemon bread using a lemon cake mix as a base.
I’ll show you how to create mouthwatering lemon bread using cake mix, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
You’ll learn simple recipes that deliver big on flavor, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
This post will explore easy lemon bread recipes that start with a cake mix. I’ll share tips for getting the best results, ideas for tasty add-ins, and even a glaze option to take your lemon bread to the next level.
Easy Lemon Bread Recipe
Let’s make this super easy lemon bread! You’ll have a tasty treat with just a few ingredients and simple steps in no time.
This recipe is perfect for those who crave something sweet and lemony but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredient Table for Our Easy Lemon Bread Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lemon cake mix | 1 package (16.5 oz) |
| Instant lemon pudding mix | 1 package (3.4 oz) |
| Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil | 1/2 cup |
| Cold water | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 4 |
Ingredient Table for Sweet Lemon Glaze (Optional )
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Lemon juice | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
How to Prepare the Lemon Bread
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. The lemon cake and pudding mix do most of the heavy lifting, giving you that great lemon flavor without the need to zest or juice any lemons yourself.
- First, grab a large bowl and toss in all the ingredients. For best results, make sure your eggs are at room temperature.
- Prepare your hand mixer and beat everything together for 3-4 minutes. You want a smooth, well-mixed batter. Don’t skimp on the mixing time – it helps create a nice, even texture in your bread.
- Now, prep two loaf pans. You can grease and flour them if you prefer. If you’re worried about the pans sticking, you can line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Try to get them as even as possible for uniform baking.
- Pop them in a preheated 350°F oven for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. Stick a toothpick in the center to check if they’re done – it should come out clean. If the tops are browning too quickly but the middle isn’t done, you can cover them loosely with foil.
- Once baked, let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up a bit and makes them easier to remove from the pans.
- Then, remove them and place them on wire racks to finish cooling completely. Resist the urge to cut into them while they’re hot—letting them cool helps the texture set properly.
And there you have it! Your easy lemon bread is ready to enjoy. This recipe is so simple that you’ll want to make it repeatedly. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon tea snack, or even a light dessert.
The bread stays moist for several days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week—if it lasts that long!
Sweet Lemon Glaze
While our lemon bread is tasty, a glaze can add an extra burst of flavor.
- Mix the above-mentioned sweet lemon glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- You can drizzle this glaze over your bread while warm or cooled completely.
- Add a couple of drops of food-grade lemon essential oil to your glaze or the bread batter for an extra lemony kick.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bread
Want to make sure your lemon bread turns out amazing every time? Here are some tips:
- Mix It Well: When you’re combining your ingredients, mix for the full 3-4 minutes. This helps create a smooth, even texture in your bread.
- Use the Right Bread Pans: This recipe works best with two 9.5″ x 5″ loaf pans. You might need to adjust the baking time if you use smaller pans.
- Don’t Overfill Your Pans: Fill each loaf pan about 2/3 full. This gives the bread room to rise without spilling over.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of your bread. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
- Cover with Foil if Needed: If you notice the edges browning too fast but the middle isn’t done, cover the top with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Let It Cool: I know it’s tempting, but wait until your bread is fully cooled before slicing. This helps it keep its shape better.
- Store it right: Keep your lemon bread at room temperature in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
- Freeze for later: If you want to save some later, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them well, and they’ll keep up to three months.
Must-Have Best Bread Pans
Choosing the right pan can make a big difference in how your bread turns out. Here’s what I’ve learned about bread pans:
- Ceramic, Glass, or Cast Iron Pans Are Great Choices: These materials distribute heat evenly, helping your bread cook uniformly.
- Avoid Dark or Non-Stick Pans: These can cause the outside of your bread to brown too quickly before the inside is fully cooked.
Avoiding Sunken Bread
Nobody likes a sunken loaf! Here’s how to make sure your bread rises and stays that way:
- Use a Cooking Thermometer: This is the best way to know if your bread is fully cooked.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Your bread is done when it reaches 200°F in the center. This ensures it’s cooked through and won’t sink as it cools.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make tasty lemon bread using cake mix! This recipe is perfect for those who want something sweet and lemony without spending hours in the kitchen. Remember to use the right pans and watch your bread as it bakes.
This bread will brighten your day, whether you enjoy it plain or with a sweet lemon glaze. It’s great for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert. Why not give it a try? You might find yourself making it again and again.
Remember to experiment with add-ins or different glazes to make your homemade lemon bread your own. Happy baking, and enjoy your homemade lemon bread!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add Lemon Juice to Store Bought Cake Mix?
Yes, you can add lemon juice to store-bought cake mix. It will boost the lemon flavor. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to taste. Remember, a little goes a long way.
Is It Better to Add Milk or Water to Cake Batter?
Milk is often better than water in the cake batter. It adds flavor and makes the cake moister. However, follow your recipe’s instructions for the best results.
Can I Use a Cake Mix in A Loaf Pan?
Yes, you can use cake mix in a loaf pan. Adjust the baking time as loaf pans are deeper than regular cake pans. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
What Else Can Be Made From Lemon Cake Mix?
Lemon cake mix can be used to make cookies, cupcakes, muffins, and lemon bars. It can also be used as a base for trifles or cake pops. It’s versatile!
Does Lemon Juice Stop Cakes from Rising?
Lemon juice doesn’t typically stop cakes from rising. Its acidity can help activate baking soda, aiding rise. However, use it in moderation to avoid affecting the recipe’s balance.
