The Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf is a wonderfully fragrant, light, and refreshing cake that combines the tang of lemon with the delicate floral notes of elderflower. This moist loaf is perfect for celebrating the longest day of the year, garden picnics, or an afternoon tea with friends. Its subtle sweetness, coupled with a tangy glaze, makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion, especially when the days are warm and the sun is shining.
What Is the Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf?
The Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf is a tender, citrus-infused cake made with fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and elderflower cordial. The loaf has a soft, airy texture, enhanced by sour cream or Greek yogurt, which keeps it moist and perfectly balanced with the floral elderflower flavor. The addition of a homemade lemon-elderflower syrup and a light glaze gives it a refreshing finish, making each bite a perfect blend of floral and citrus notes.
Origin of the Recipe
This loaf recipe takes inspiration from the Summer Solstice, a celebration of the longest day of the year, traditionally associated with the arrival of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Elderflower has long been a symbol of this time of year, blooming at its peak around the solstice. The combination of lemon and elderflower brings together the freshness of summer and the enchanting, sweet fragrance of elderflower, which has been used in drinks and desserts for centuries. This loaf embodies the spirit of the season, creating a delightful balance of flavors that celebrate nature’s bounty.
Ingredients for the Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf
For the Loaf
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp finely grated lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tbsp elderflower cordial (e.g., St-Germain or Belvoir)
- ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Lemon-Elderflower Syrup
- 2 tbsp elderflower cordial
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp sugar
For the Glaze
- ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tbsp elderflower cordial
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (adjust for consistency)
- Optional: edible flowers, lemon zest curls, or fresh thyme for garnish 🌸
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring that the loaf will easily come out once baked.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this will take about 2–3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the lemon zest, elderflower cordial, and vanilla extract, mixing gently.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and lemon juice, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this will affect the loaf’s texture.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Brush with Syrup
While the loaf is cooling, prepare the lemon-elderflower syrup. In a small saucepan or bowl, combine elderflower cordial, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Once the loaf has cooled slightly, brush the syrup evenly over the warm loaf. This will help the syrup soak in, giving the loaf an extra layer of flavor. Allow the loaf to cool completely before applying the glaze.
Step 5: Glaze & Decorate
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, elderflower cordial, and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, letting it cascade down the sides. If desired, garnish with edible flowers, lemon zest curls, or fresh thyme for a bright, solstice-worthy finish.
Variations for the Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf
- For a lighter floral flavor, reduce the elderflower cordial in the batter to just 1 tablespoon.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut yogurt.
- Add a bit of texture: Fold in a handful of chopped almonds or poppy seeds to the batter for added crunch.
- Berries: Add some fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries to the batter to give the loaf an extra burst of flavor and color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture or try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
2. How do I store the loaf?
The Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature, covered with a tight lid or plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the loaf before glazing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.
4. Is there a substitute for elderflower cordial?
If you can’t find elderflower cordial, you can substitute it with elderflower syrup or even a rose water-infused syrup for a different floral touch.
Conclusion
The Summer Solstice Lemon Elderflower Loaf is a delightful treat that combines the best of summer citrus and the delicate floral flavors of elderflower. Whether you’re celebrating the solstice, hosting an afternoon tea, or just looking for a refreshing cake to enjoy with loved ones, this loaf is guaranteed to impress. With its tender texture, fragrant syrup, and zesty glaze, every slice captures the essence of a sunny day, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Try this recipe today and bask in the glorious flavors of summer!
[tasty-recipe id=”14665″]
