Name: Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 eggs eggs (lightly beaten); ⅔ cup sugar; ½ cup vegetable oil; ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain); ¼ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon); ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 cups powdered sugar (same as icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Lemon Poppy Seed Bread fresh from the oven. I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of zesty lemon filled my kitchen, pulling my family in like a warm hug. It’s a recipe that has been a part of my life for years, cherished for its delightful balance of sweetness and tang. Each bite brings back memories of sunny mornings spent with loved ones, sharing laughter over breakfast. This bread isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that feels like a little piece of joy on your plate.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, AIP, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Loaf Pan 8.5 x 4.5 x 3 Inch

Why This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Is So Good

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the things I love about Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a sweet snack, or wanting to impress guests with minimal effort, this bread shines at every event. It’s a delightful addition to picnics or a lovely companion to an afternoon cup of tea.

A Burst of Flavor

This recipe brings together the bright notes of fresh lemon juice and zest with the nutty crunch of poppy seeds. The combination creates a symphony of flavors that truly lifts your spirits. When you take a bite, the citrus flavor dances on your palate, making each mouthful unforgettable.

Simple Ingredients

Another reason I adore this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just gather basic pantry staples like all-purpose flour, sugar, and eggs, and you’re halfway there. The best part? These ingredients work harmoniously to create a tender, moist loaf that everyone will enjoy.

Customizable Glaze

The glaze is where you can get creative! I love whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice to create a zesty topping that sets this bread apart. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking, making it a fun way to personalize your loaf. Sometimes, I even add a sprinkle of zest on top for an extra punch!

Great for Gifting

Have a friend or neighbor that needs a pick-me-up? A loaf of Lemon Poppy Seed Bread makes for an excellent gift! Wrap it in a simple parchment paper and add a ribbon. It’s a heartfelt gesture that shows you care, and who doesn’t love a homemade treat?

What’s In This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

When it comes to baking, the ingredients you choose play a significant role in the final outcome. The key players in this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread are all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, and of course, the vibrant lemon. Each ingredient contributes to the delightful flavor and texture of the bread, resulting in a moist, fluffy loaf with a satisfying crunch from the poppy seeds. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour – A staple for structure and texture.
3 tablespoons poppy seeds – Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
1 tablespoon baking powder – Provides the necessary lift.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
3 eggs (lightly beaten) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
⅔ cup sugar – Sweetens the loaf beautifully.
½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the bread moist.
½ cup Greek yogurt (plain) – Adds richness and helps with moisture.
¼ cup milk – Aids in achieving the right consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon) – Intensifies the lemon flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon) – Brightens up the bread.
¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed) – For the glaze.
2 cups powdered sugar (same as icing sugar or confectioners sugar) – To create the glaze.

Step by Step Instructions for Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Making Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful experience, and I can’t wait to guide you through it! Follow these simple steps to create a loaf that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, grease your bread pan with butter or oil. This helps ensure that your bread comes out easily after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of poppy seeds, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to stir them together, incorporating air and ensuring even distribution.
In another bowl, whisk together 3 lightly beaten eggs, ⅔ cup of sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, ¼ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix until everything is combined and smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to slowly stir them together. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until you see no dry flour. This will help keep your bread light and fluffy.
Once combined, pour the batter into your prepared bread pan. Spread it out evenly, making sure to reach the corners.
Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
As the bread bakes, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar and ¼ cup of lemon juice. Adjust the consistency to your liking—add more sugar for thickness or more juice for a thinner glaze.
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
After it has cooled down, drizzle your lemon glaze over the bread. Let it set for a few moments before slicing into it.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Stir gently to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Adjust the Icing: Customize the glaze to your preference for thickness.
Test for Doneness: Start checking at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Cool Completely Before Icing: Let the bread cool fully for the glaze to set properly.

Expert Tips about Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Baking is an art, and each loaf of Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a chance to refine your skills. Here are some expert tips to ensure your bread turns out perfect every time.

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this bread! Just slice it and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It’ll last for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve your bread with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Variations: Experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or cranberries can be great additions!
Glazing Tips: For a fun twist, add a bit of zest to your icing for an extra lemony kick!

What to Serve With Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

This lovely Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas on what to serve alongside this delightful treat:

Breakfast: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to start your day on a bright note.
Brunch: Serve slices alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a refreshing brunch spread.
Afternoon Snack: Enjoy a slice with some cream cheese spread for a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.
Picnics: Wrap individual slices for easy transport to your next outdoor gathering—perfect for sharing!
Gifting: Wrap in decorative paper and tie with a ribbon for a delightful homemade gift.

FAQ

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in a Lemon Poppy Seed Bread. However, it may change the texture and flavor slightly. Whole wheat flour tends to produce denser bread, so you might want to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly to maintain the same moisture level. Start by using a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to see how you like it!

If you want to make Lemon Poppy Seed Bread gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity that gluten provides. The result will be a delicious loaf that everyone can enjoy, and it won’t compromise on taste or texture.

To store leftover Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just slice the bread, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. It can last for up to three months in the freezer!

Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch to your Lemon Poppy Seed Bread. Just fold in about half a cup of chopped nuts when you combine your wet and dry ingredients. It’ll add an extra dimension of flavor and texture!

Conclusion

The Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors that will brighten your day. It’s an easy recipe perfect for sharing with family and friends. I encourage you to try baking this bread; you’ll love how simple it is to make and how delicious it tastes. Enjoy every slice!