Description
Winter Citrus Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that combines the bright, tangy flavors of winter citrus fruits like oranges and lemons with a tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, this bread features a citrus glaze that enhances its zesty character and adds a sweet finish.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Citrus Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and lemon zest.
- Combine wet ingredients: Stir in the sour cream and freshly squeezed orange juice, mixing until combined but not overworked.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze: While the bread is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Cool and glaze: Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet and pour the citrus glaze over the warm bread, allowing it to soak in.
- Cool completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to let the glaze set and flavors meld.
Notes
- Use fresh citrus zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
- The glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful shine, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet bread.
- Store the citrus bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.
- For added texture, consider mixing in 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American