Description
This Sticky Treacle Citrus Loaf is a delightful treat combining the rich, deep sweetness of treacle with fresh citrus zest and juice. Moist and sticky, this loaf is perfectly complemented by a tangy citrus glaze that adds brightness and balances the intense flavors. Ideal for teatime or as a comforting dessert, this loaf offers a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and aromatic notes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 200 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 150 g (3/4 cup) brown sugar
- 100 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) treacle (or molasses)
- 100 ml (1/2 cup) milk
Citrus Flavoring
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 lemon
Citrus Glaze
- 100 g (1/2 cup) icing sugar (powdered sugar)
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure the loaf doesn’t stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process takes about 3-5 minutes and helps create a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Treacle: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the treacle until the mixture is well combined, lending a rich sweetness.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and developing gluten.
- Add Citrus Zest and Juice: Fold in the zest of the orange and lemon along with their fresh juices. The batter will be thick and sticky, enriched with fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare the Citrus Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, fresh orange juice, and lemon juice until you achieve a smooth glaze. Adjust the thickness by adding more juice or sugar as needed.
- Glaze the Loaf: When the loaf is completely cooled, drizzle the citrus glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides to add a tangy sweetness and appealing shine.
- Serve: Slice the loaf and serve on a simple white plate to enjoy the perfect balance of sticky treacle richness and citrus brightness.
Notes
- Use fresh citrus juice and zest for the best vibrant flavor.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting too much.
- The loaf can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.
- Treacle can be substituted with molasses if preferred; note the flavor will be slightly different.
- For extra moisture, consider brushing the loaf with a little leftover citrus juice before glazing.
- If a gluten-free option is needed, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
