Description
This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread, bursting with fresh lemon zest and tender poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, it features a tangy lemon glaze that adds a refreshing finishing touch. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, this bread offers a delightful balance of citrus and sweet with a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (or substitute with oil or coconut oil)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (about 1 large or 2 small lemons)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and grease the pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, melted butter (or chosen oil), plain Greek yogurt, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
- Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- Glaze the Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top evenly. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute melted butter with vegetable oil or coconut oil for a different flavor and texture.
- Room temperature eggs help create a smooth batter and better rise.
- Lemon zest and juice provide fresh, bright flavor; use organic lemons if possible.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
