Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread: A Zesty Treat for Any Occasion

Are you looking for a delightful way to brighten up your day or a special occasion? My Lemon Poppy Seed Bread recipe combines the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds in a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet snack.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil (120 ml)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml)
• 1/2 cup milk (120 ml), 2% or whole recommended
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (45 ml), freshly squeezed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 3 tablespoons lemon zest

For the Glaze:

• 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (110 – 165 grams)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (15-30 ml), freshly squeezed

Directions

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
   • Line the bottom of an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and grease and flour the sides.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Set aside.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, lemon zest, and poppy seeds.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
   • Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into the well.
   • Gently fold the mixture together using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until there are no more streaks or lumps of flour.
5. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
   • Bake in the middle of the oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
6. Cool and Glaze:
   • Allow the bread to cool completely.
   • For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, adjusting consistency with more sugar or juice as needed.
   • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.

This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing treat that’s sure to impress. The citrusy aroma and the balance of sweetness make it a perfect companion to your favorite coffee or tea. Enjoy the burst of lemon flavor in each bite, and share this delightful treat with friends and family!