Weight Watchers Lemon Loaf Recipe

Indulge in the refreshing taste of Lemon Loaf, a delightful dessert that is both light and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for your Weight Watchers journey. This recipe is designed to be low in SmartPoints while still delivering a burst of citrus flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a simple treat at home, this lemon loaf is sure to impress!

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
SmartPoints: 4 per slice (on Blue and Purple plans; 5 on Green)

Ingredients

For this Weight Watchers Lemon Loaf, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (180g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated erythritol (or another sugar substitute)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

Optional Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered erythritol
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Rubber spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-heated oven is essential for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

2. Grease the loaf pan with a bit of cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This helps prevent sticking and ensures a smooth presentation.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, erythritol, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed, which is crucial for consistent texture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until well combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the loaf.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

5. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser loaf.

Step 6: Pour into the Loaf Pan

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula. Ensure the batter is evenly distributed for uniform baking.

Step 7: Bake the Lemon Loaf

7. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.

Step 8: Cool the Loaf

8. Once baked, remove the lemon loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps to set the structure of the loaf.

Step 9: Transfer to Wire Rack

9. Carefully remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the loaf from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Step 10: Prepare the Optional Glaze

10. While the loaf is cooling, prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered erythritol and lemon juice until smooth. If desired, add lemon zest for extra flavor.

Step 11: Glaze the Loaf

11. Once the loaf is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. This adds a beautiful shine and enhances the lemon flavor.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

12. Using a sharp knife, slice the loaf into 12 even pieces. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Net Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 1g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

• SmartPoints: 4 (Blue and Purple plans); 5 (Green plan)

Tips and Variations

1. Flour Substitutes: While almond flour is recommended for its low carb content, you can experiment with coconut flour. If you do, use only 1/3 cup and increase the liquids slightly, as coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
2. Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of erythritol according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, feel free to add a bit more, keeping in mind that this will slightly alter the SmartPoints.
3. Additional Flavors: To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding a few drops of lemon extract or a pinch of citric acid to the batter. This can intensify the citrus notes.
4. Serving Suggestions: This lemon loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for an extra treat.
5. Meal Prep: This lemon loaf is perfect for meal prep. Bake it at the beginning of the week and enjoy it as a quick snack or dessert throughout the week.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the lemon loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of the lemon loaf for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm lemon loaf, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds, or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Loaf is versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy it plain, with a light glaze, or topped with fresh berries for a pop of color and added nutrition. Pair it with a scoop of low-calorie ice cream or a yogurt parfait for a more indulgent dessert experience.

Conclusion

The Weight Watchers Lemon Loaf is a refreshing dessert that brings a zesty twist to your low-point options. Its simplicity and delightful flavor make it a must-try recipe that can be enjoyed guilt-free. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice on your own, this lemon loaf is sure to brighten your day. Try it today and indulge in a sweet treat that aligns with your healthy lifestyle!