Pistachio Lemon Breakfast Bread

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread after baking.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add Eggs and Lemon:

• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. The lemon will add a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the pistachios.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Yogurt:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the yogurt. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.

6. Add the Pistachios:

• Gently fold in the chopped pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Pour the Batter into the Pan:

• Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top for an added crunch.

8. Bake:

• Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should have a golden-brown crust and a slight bounce when pressed gently.

9. Cool the Bread:

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Optional Lemon Glaze:

• For an extra layer of sweetness and flavor, make a quick lemon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and a few teaspoons of lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for a glossy, sweet finish.

Tips for the Perfect Pistachio Lemon Breakfast Bread:

• Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds the brightest, most vibrant flavor to the bread. Avoid using pre-grated lemon zest from a jar, as it may lack the intensity of fresh zest.
• Toast the Pistachios (Optional): For a deeper nutty flavor, you can lightly toast the pistachios in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the batter. This step enhances their aroma and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread, so stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add a little more sugar or use the glaze to provide that extra sweetness.
• Store Properly: To keep the bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe:

This Pistachio Lemon Breakfast Bread is the perfect combination of zesty, nutty, and sweet, with a tender, moist texture that makes each bite feel like a special treat. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast bread to serve with your morning coffee or a light dessert to enjoy in the afternoon, this bread is incredibly versatile and satisfying.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe that both beginner and experienced bakers will appreciate. The natural sweetness from the lemon and the crunch of the pistachios create a unique flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.

So go ahead, indulge in a slice (or two!) of this delightful Pistachio Lemon Breakfast Bread and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that are perfect for any time of day.