Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is a bright and delightful treat that perfectly balances zesty citrus flavor with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. It’s moist, tender, and lightly sweetened, making it a fantastic choice for breakfast, brunch, or a refreshing afternoon snack. Whether you’re serving it with a cup of tea or packing it for a picnic, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want to enjoy a homemade citrusy delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and a hint of sweetness
• Soft, moist texture with a satisfying crunch from poppy seeds
• Quick and simple to prepare with pantry staples
• Perfect for any occasion—breakfast, snack, or dessert

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ⅓ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Add the melted butter, yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Tips

Serve this Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf slightly warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a spread of butter or cream cheese. For an extra special touch, drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top or serve alongside fresh berries and a cup of tea or coffee.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. To enjoy later, reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them lightly for a warm, fresh taste.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (including cooling)
• Yield: 8–10 slices

Optional Variations

• Glaze it up: Add a sweet lemon glaze by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Drizzle over the cooled loaf for extra zing.
• Orange twist: Swap the lemon juice and zest for orange to make an Orange Poppy Seed Loaf instead.
• Greek yogurt swap: Use Greek yogurt for a richer, denser texture and added protein.
• Vegan option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based yogurt, and swap butter for melted coconut oil.
• Whole wheat: For added fiber, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Related Recipes

• Blueberry Lemon Muffins
• Glazed Orange Pound Cake
• Classic Vanilla Bean Loaf

Conclusion

This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is a bright, zesty, and comforting bake that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, its tangy lemon flavor and soft texture are sure to please. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this loaf is a must-try for lemon lovers and quick bread fans alike. Don’t forget to share a slice this lemon poppy seed loaf is too good to keep to yourself!

FAQs

Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Yes! This loaf keeps well for several days. You can bake it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf?
Absolutely. Wrap the fully cooled loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
You can omit them entirely or replace with chia seeds for a similar crunch. The flavor will change slightly, but the texture remains satisfying.

Can I add a glaze to the loaf?
Yes! A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice adds a sweet-tart finish. Drizzle it on once the loaf has fully cooled.

Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
This could be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Make sure to test with a toothpick and mix just until combined.

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