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Lemon-Infused Loaf Cake with Candied Kumquats and a Silky Icing Glaze

A bright and aromatic lemon-infused loaf cake topped with jewel-like candied kumquats and finished with a silky citrus icing glaze, making it a delightful treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup candied kumquats (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 23 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry.
  6. Fold in chopped candied kumquats gently.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over cooled loaf.
  11. Top with extra candied kumquats before the glaze sets for a decorative finish.

Notes

  • Use homemade or store-bought candied kumquats.
  • Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent it from melting off.
  • The loaf can be stored at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Wrap well and freeze without glaze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon loaf cake, candied kumquats, citrus dessert, iced loaf, tea cake, lemon glaze cake