Classic Yellow Loaf Bread Recipe

Bake a soft, buttery, and moist yellow loaf bread that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. With its rich vanilla flavor and tender crumb, this easy homemade loaf is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed plain or topped with a sweet vanilla glaze.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

• 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) evaporated milk or whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp yellow food coloring (optional, for a brighter color)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for a fresh citrus flavor)

Optional Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup (120 g) icing sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk or fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).

Grease an 8 × 4-inch loaf pan and line it with baking paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light, pale, and fluffy. This helps create a soft and tender loaf.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add the vanilla extract, milk, yellow food coloring (if using), and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine the Batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Avoid overmixing, as this can make the loaf dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Let it cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Optional Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, milk (or lemon juice), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Drizzle the glaze generously over the completely cooled loaf and allow it to set before serving.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Yield

1 loaf (approximately 10–12 slices)

Tips for the Perfect Yellow Loaf Bread

• Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smooth, even batter.
• Measure the flour accurately to avoid a dry loaf.
• Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added.
• Add lemon zest for a subtle citrus aroma that complements the vanilla beautifully.
• Let the loaf cool completely before glazing or slicing to achieve clean, even slices.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this buttery yellow loaf bread:

• Warm with butter
• Toasted for breakfast
• With tea or coffee
• Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream
• As a simple dessert with a light vanilla glaze

This classic yellow loaf is wonderfully soft, moist, and full of rich buttery flavor—an easy homemade bake that’s perfect for any occasion.