Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf that perfectly balances the bright zing of lemon with the delicate crunch of poppy seeds. This delightful bread is an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dessert. The addition of a sweet lemon glaze makes this recipe an irresistible treat for anyone who loves a burst of citrusy freshness in their baked goods.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bread:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup salted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup whole milk
2 tablespoons poppy seeds

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using a stand mixer or hand-held mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the pure vanilla extract until combined.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the canola oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, sour cream, and whole milk to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in Poppy Seeds: Gently fold in the poppy seeds until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and desired consistency is reached.
Glaze the Bread: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 273
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 62mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 37g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 4g

The Appeal of Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon poppy seed bread has long been a favorite in the world of baked goods. Its combination of tender, moist texture and the distinctive crunch of poppy seeds creates a unique eating experience. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon elevates the bread, offering a refreshing contrast to its richness. Whether served alongside a cup of tea or as part of a breakfast spread, this bread has a way of making any occasion feel a little more special.

The origins of lemon poppy seed bread date back to European baking traditions, where poppy seeds have been used in a variety of pastries and breads for centuries. Today, this bread is beloved for its simplicity, as it requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. It is a timeless recipe that works for both casual and formal gatherings, making it a versatile addition to any baker’s repertoire.

The Perfect Texture: Moist, Fluffy, and Light

One of the key components of this lemon poppy seed bread is its moist and tender crumb. This texture is achieved through a combination of ingredients that work together to create a soft, airy loaf. The addition of sour cream and whole milk helps to keep the bread moist, while the eggs contribute to its structure. The oil adds richness and ensures the loaf remains tender, while the combination of baking powder and baking soda provides just the right amount of lift.

The key to achieving the perfect texture is in the mixing process. Overmixing can lead to a dense or heavy loaf, so it’s important to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them. This technique helps to preserve the airy and light quality of the bread, making each bite enjoyable and satisfying.

The Zesty Flavor of Lemon

The star of the show in this lemon poppy seed bread is the lemon. The fresh lemon zest, combined with lemon juice, infuses the bread with a vibrant citrus flavor that shines through with every bite. Lemon zest, which is the outer peel of the lemon, is packed with essential oils that contain the fruit’s most aromatic and flavorful compounds. By incorporating lemon zest into the batter, the bread takes on a bright, fragrant quality that is both refreshing and aromatic.

Lemon juice further enhances the citrusy flavor, providing a slight tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the bread. The balance between the sweet and tart flavors is what makes this bread so irresistible, offering a refreshing, clean finish that makes you want to take another bite.

The Pop of Poppy Seeds

While the lemon flavor takes center stage, the poppy seeds provide a unique texture and an additional layer of flavor. These tiny seeds are slightly nutty and earthy, adding a subtle crunch to the soft, moist bread. The poppy seeds are scattered throughout the loaf, giving it a distinctive speckled appearance that is both visually appealing and enjoyable to eat.

In addition to their texture, poppy seeds have a mild, pleasant flavor that complements the lemon perfectly. They don’t overpower the bread but rather enhance the overall experience, creating a satisfying balance of taste and texture in every bite.

The Sweet Lemon Glaze: The Finishing Touch

While the bread itself is delicious on its own, the lemon glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and tartness that elevates the entire dish. The glaze is made with powdered sugar and lemon juice, creating a smooth and glossy finish that drizzles beautifully over the top of the bread. As the glaze sets, it forms a thin, sweet layer that adds a burst of citrus flavor with each bite.

The glaze not only enhances the bread’s flavor but also contributes to its presentation. The glossy finish gives the bread an elegant look, making it perfect for any special occasion. Whether served at a brunch, holiday gathering, or as a treat for a loved one, the glaze adds that extra touch of sweetness and beauty that makes the bread stand out.

Versatility: Enjoying Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Anytime

One of the great things about lemon poppy seed bread is its versatility. It’s an ideal option for breakfast or brunch, pairing wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. The subtle sweetness and citrus flavor make it a refreshing start to the day, and its moist texture makes it incredibly satisfying.

This bread is also perfect for afternoon tea, offering a light yet indulgent treat that pairs well with both hot and iced beverages. The richness of the bread and the refreshing lemon flavor create a perfect balance that will keep guests coming back for more.

Lemon poppy seed bread also makes a great gift. Wrapped in parchment paper or placed in a decorative box, it’s a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift that is sure to delight anyone who receives it. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this bread is a gesture of kindness that will be appreciated by all.

A Healthier Option Without Compromising Flavor

For those who enjoy healthier alternatives without sacrificing taste, lemon poppy seed bread can be a great option. It contains wholesome ingredients like whole milk, eggs, and butter, which provide essential nutrients. Additionally, the bread is lower in fat compared to some other desserts, making it a great choice for those who are mindful of their diet but still want to indulge in something sweet.

While it’s not sugar-free or calorie-free, this bread offers a satisfying treat that doesn’t leave you feeling overly stuffed or guilty. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and moderation, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treat for Any Occasion

In conclusion, this lemon poppy seed bread is a delightful and timeless treat that offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From its tender, moist crumb to the vibrant lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds, this bread is sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, this bread is a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire.

With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious outcome, lemon poppy seed bread is a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Whether served at a holiday brunch, afternoon tea, or as a treat for yourself, it’s sure to be a hit every time. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy a slice of this bright and flavorful bread!

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