Zesty Lemon

There is nothing to equal the zesty, zingy flavour of lemon. Citrus fruit is plentiful and at its best/juiciest about now. If you are into seasonal eating - eat it at this time of year and get some extra health benefits to boot! Add coconut (for texture) to zingy lemon and you have a winner in my books! My Mum and I share a love of any thing coconut-y.

I've tasted a few versions of the 'Lemon Loaf' but this recipe of my Mum's is exceptional! It has well and truly earned its place in our family recipe book.



Lemon Syrup Loaf

1/2 cup coconut
125 gm butter
2 tsp grated lemon rind
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup milk
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp baking powder
Syrup-
1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup sugar

Combine coconut and milk then set aside. Cream butter, sugar and lemon rind until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift flour, baking powder & salt into creamed mixture. Add coconut mixture then fold until completely combined. Pour mixture into a greased and lined, 22cm loaf tin. Bake at 180 deg C for about 3/4 to 1 hr or until loaf springs back when lightly touched. Allow to cool slightly.
Place 1/4 cup of lemon juice & 1/4 cup sugar in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Spoon syrup over warm cake while still in tin. Leave until cold.