Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Bright, zesty, and delightfully tender, this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a cheerful treat for any time of day. With a tangy lemon glaze and a moist crumb speckled with tiny poppy seeds, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Easy to make and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, this loaf will be your new favorite baked good.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh Citrus Flavor – Real lemon juice and zest bring vibrant, natural flavor.
Soft & Moist – Made with yogurt for extra moisture and a tender crumb.
Simple Pantry Ingredients – Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
Perfect for Gifting – Wrap it up with a ribbon and share the sunshine.
Freezer-Friendly – Make an extra loaf and freeze it for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired thickness)
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)

Tools You’ll Need
9×5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk and rubber spatula
Zester or microplane
Wire rack
Toothpick or cake tester

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until light and creamy.
Add yogurt, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir gently with a spatula just until combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Cool the Bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Then remove from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 7: Make the Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Adjust the consistency with more juice or sugar as needed.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with lemon zest if desired.

Step 8: Let Set and Slice
Allow the glaze to set for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Use Fresh Lemons – Bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the same flavor.
Zest First, Then Juice – It’s easier to zest a whole lemon.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the bread light.
Test for Doneness – Use a toothpick to check the center of the loaf.
Cool Before Glazing – Warm bread will melt the glaze and make it runny.

Serving Suggestions
Breakfast – Toast a slice and add a pat of butter.
Brunch Platter – Serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee.
Dessert – Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tea Time – Enjoy with a hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile.
Gift Idea – Wrap in wax paper, tie with string, and give to friends or neighbors.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Freezing:
Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating:
Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds for a warm treat.
Toast lightly if you enjoy a crisp edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes! Greek yogurt adds protein and a slightly tangier flavor.

2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check the baking time, as it may vary slightly.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor.

4. How can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut the sugar in the bread by ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.

5. Are poppy seeds necessary?
Not at all—you can omit them if preferred or replace with chia seeds for a similar texture.

Final Thoughts
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is like a slice of sunshine—bright, tangy, and utterly delightful. It’s an easy quick bread that feels elegant enough for brunch yet comforting enough for everyday snacking. Whether you’re serving it at a spring gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this recipe brings zest and joy to any table.

Try baking a loaf today—you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is to bring bakery-style flavor into your kitchen!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 220mg

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