Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful baked treat that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Topped with a luscious lemon drizzle, this bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day. Whether served as a quick breakfast, a light dessert, or an afternoon snack, this loaf is guaranteed to please.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make Lemon Poppy Seed Bread step-by-step, including tips for success, serving suggestions, and ways to customize the recipe to your liking.
Ingredients for Lemon Poppy Seed Bread with Lemon Drizzle
For the Bread
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
For the Lemon Drizzle
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (add more if needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Set this mixture aside while preparing the wet ingredients.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg until the mixture is light and well combined.
- Add the milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bread.
5. Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean.
- Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Lemon Drizzle
- In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and pourable. Add more lemon juice if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Drizzle and Serve
- Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve your beautiful Lemon Poppy Seed Bread!
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a refreshing breakfast.
- Indulgent: Warm a slice and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.
- Fruity Addition: Top with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a burst of freshness.
- Dessert-Ready: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to a slice of bread for a decadent treat.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Bread
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense and tough. Stir until just combined.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature egg, milk, and sour cream for a smoother batter and even texture.
- Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, zest and juice fresh lemons. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the drizzle.
- Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so begin checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
- Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace whole milk and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest to the drizzle for more citrus punch.
- Nuts: Fold in 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
- Orange Twist: Swap out lemon juice and zest for orange to create Orange Poppy Seed Bread.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vitamin C: Lemons are rich in vitamin C, supporting immunity and skin health.
- Protein: Eggs provide high-quality protein for muscle repair.
- Calcium: Dairy ingredients like milk and sour cream contribute to bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Vegetable oil adds essential fats for energy and satiety.
- Poppy Seeds: Offer dietary fiber and minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
Yes! Once the bread has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. How can I make the bread moister?
Using sour cream and vegetable oil ensures the bread is moist. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the loaf.
3. Can I make muffins with this recipe?
Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread with Lemon Drizzle is a versatile, delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tangy citrus flavor, tender crumb, and glossy glaze, this loaf strikes the ideal balance between sweet and tart. Try it today for a bright and satisfying treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!