Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Bright, zesty, and lightly sweet, Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful quick bread bursting with citrus flavor and a tender crumb. The combination of fresh lemon juice, fragrant zest, and nutty poppy seeds creates a refreshing treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, this loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Zesty & Refreshing – Bold lemon flavor in every bite.
Soft & Moist – Yogurt or sour cream ensures a tender texture.
Simple to Make – No mixer required, just one bowl.
Perfect for Any Time – Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert.
Freezer-Friendly – Great for make-ahead baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional but recommended):
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice (adjust for desired thickness)
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)

Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Zester or grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (optional, for lining)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth and combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Do not overmix—stop once no flour streaks remain.

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 in the center comes out clean.
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread and top with a little lemon zest if desired.

Tips for the Best Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh juice and zest make a huge flavor difference.
Don’t Overmix – Keep the texture light by mixing just until combined.
Let It Cool – Glazing warm bread will cause the glaze to melt.
Make It Healthier – Sub whole wheat flour for half the flour if desired.
Double It – Bake one now and freeze one for later.

Serving Suggestions
With Coffee or Tea – A lovely pairing for morning or afternoon.
As a Dessert – Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt.
In a Brunch Spread – Add to a table with fruit, eggs, and muffins.
For Gifting – Wrap in parchment and ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
As a Snack – Perfect for lunchboxes or mid-day energy boosts.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Wrap the cooled, unglazed loaf in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze just before serving.

Reheating:
Microwave slices for 10–15 seconds for a just-baked feel.
Toaster oven works great for a slightly crisp edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
   Fresh is best for both flavor and aroma, but bottled will work in a pinch.
2. Can I skip the poppy seeds?
   Yes—omit them or swap with chia seeds for a twist.
3. Can I make muffins instead?
   Absolutely—divide into a muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes.
4. Is the glaze necessary?
   It’s optional but adds extra lemon flavor and visual appeal.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes—use dairy-free yogurt and oil instead of butter.

Final Thoughts
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a bright and cheerful classic that’s always a hit. Whether you’re baking it for brunch, gifting it to a friend, or slicing it for your morning coffee, this loaf delivers citrusy flavor and soft, satisfying texture in every bite. It’s the kind of simple pleasure you’ll find yourself baking again and again.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out—don’t forget to leave a review and share your lemony masterpiece!

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

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 10 slices):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 170mg

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