Healthy Vegan Lemon Loaf
User Reviews
5
Healthy Vegan Lemon Loaf
Description
This Healthy Vegan Lemon Loaf blends oat and brown rice flours with a leavening blend of baking powder and baking soda, providing lift and a light crumb for otherwise dense flours. Dates processed into a syrup add natural sweetness without refined sugar, balanced by the brightness of fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. Warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg add subtle depth that supports the lemon flavor. Applesauce contributes moisture, binding the batter gently. Baking in a parchment-lined 9-inch square pan yields a loaf with a tender crumb that holds together well.
The loaf develops a citrusy, sweet flavor profile with hints of spice. The method involves careful measurement of the date syrup to prevent excess moisture, reserving some for the lemon glaze. The glaze is a simple mixture of date syrup and lemon juice that enhances the lemon notes while adding a sweet, sticky finish. Cooling the loaf fully before glazing ensures it sets properly.
This lemon loaf slices into 16 squares, perfect for serving as a snack, breakfast addition, or light dessert. The mild spices make lemon the star flavor. The use of gluten-free flours and natural sweetener makes it accessible for special diets. The loaf pairs well with hot tea or coffee for a refreshing, balanced treat.
For best results, use active baking powder to ensure proper rise. If dates are too dry or a high-speed blender is unavailable, soaking them in hot water softens them for blending. To get more juice from lemons, warming or rolling them before juicing helps. Allow the glazed loaf to rest briefly before slicing to let the glaze firm up without sticking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 150 grams oat flour approx. 1.5 cups
- 100 grams brown rice flour approx. ⅔ cup
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup dates packed, pitted
- 1.5 cups water
- ⅓ cup applesauce unsweetened
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ⅓ cup lemon juice you'll need about 2 medium lemons
For the lemon glaze
- date syrup remaining
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350℉/176℃ and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Add your dates and water to a high-speed blender and process until smooth to make date syrup. Set it aside.
- Whisk all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Then add the applesauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1.5 cups worth (NOT more) of the date syrup you just made. Stir until combined. (Reserve the remaining date syrup for the glaze.)
- Transfer the batter to your baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a cutting board or cooling rack to completely cool.
- Meanwhile, add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the remaining date syrup and mix. (Taste it and add more lemon juice, if preferred.) Then drizzle the glaze on your lemon loaf and let it rest for a few minutes to set before slicing into 16 squares.
Notes
- Ensure baking powder is fresh and active for proper rise when using oat and rice flours.
- If dates are dry or a high-speed blender is not available, soak dates in hot water for 15 minutes before blending.
- Use only 1.5 cups of the date syrup in the batter; reserve the remainder for making the lemon glaze.
- Warm or roll lemons before juicing to maximize juice yield.
- After glazing, let the loaf rest a few minutes to allow the glaze to set before slicing.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 92 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 92cal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Sodium | 118mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 127mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 4IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 4mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 57mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
