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Winter Citrus Bread Recipe


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4 from 49 reviews

  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Combine wet ingredients: Stir in the sour cream and freshly squeezed orange juice, mixing until combined but not overworked.
  6. 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.
  7. Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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