Lemon Balm Bread

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Servings: 1 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A fragrant, tender quick bread infused with fresh lemon balm and zesty citrus notes
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This Lemon Balm Bread is a delightful quick bread that captures the bright, herbal essence of fresh lemon balm paired with the zesty aroma of lemon zest. The crumb is tender and moist, enriched with butter and eggs, making it a perfect companion for afternoon tea or a light breakfast. The subtle sweetness balances the herbaceous notes beautifully, creating a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile. It’s an excellent way to use up garden-fresh lemon balm, offering a unique twist on traditional lemon loaves. Serve it slightly warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it as a fragrant gift. This recipe is simple enough for weekends but impressive enough for guests, ensuring it becomes a seasonal favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

Lemon Balm Bread recipe image
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Lemon Balm Bread

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 1 Calories: 529.1

Description

This Lemon Balm Bread is a delightful quick bread that captures the bright, herbal essence of fresh lemon balm paired with the zesty aroma of lemon zest. The crumb is tender and moist, enriched with butter and eggs, making it a perfect companion for afternoon tea or a light breakfast. The subtle sweetness balances the herbaceous notes beautifully, creating a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent way to use up garden-fresh lemon balm, offering a unique twist on traditional lemon loaves. Serve it slightly warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it as a fragrant gift. This recipe is simple enough for weekends but impressive enough for guests, ensuring it becomes a seasonal favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC) and grease a standard loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Stir in the finely chopped lemon balm, lemon zest, and optional chopped nuts.
  6. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 529.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 29.8g46%
Saturated Fat 17.0g85%
Cholesterol 251.0mg84%
Sodium 63.5mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 61.9g21%
Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
Sugars 61.0g
Protein 6.9g14%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Lemon balm can be substituted with fresh mint or lemon verbena if lemon balm is unavailable, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Store the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 3 months.

Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming with the sugar, which helps create a tender crumb.

If using nuts, walnuts or almonds complement the citrus and herbal notes best. Toasting them lightly beforehand enhances their flavor.

Keywords: lemon balm, herbal bread, quick bread, citrus loaf, homemade bread, vegetarian, afternoon tea, breakfast treat, fresh herbs, zesty, aromatic, buttery, tender crumb, garden herbs, spring baking
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