The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen is nothing short of magical. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Lemon Poppy Seed Bread—sweet, tangy, and utterly addictive. This delightful quick bread marries zesty lemon flavors with a charming crunch from poppy seeds, making it a versatile treat that’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert at your next get-together. One of the best parts? It comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether it’s a cozy brunch with friends or a comforting slice enjoyed with your afternoon tea, this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is sure to impress. Curious about how to create this scrumptious loaf that boasts both moisture and flavor? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Lemon Poppy Seed Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible Moisture: This bread is remarkably soft and moist, thanks to the combination of sour cream and milk, creating a texture that melts in your mouth.
Zesty Flavor Explosion: Fresh lemon juice and zest deliver a punch of brightness that lifts your spirits with every bite.
Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy days, this recipe comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous baking.
Versatile Treat: Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread fits any occasion beautifully.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s sure to impress friends and family alike—no one can resist that sweet-tart glaze!
For more delightful recipes, you might also enjoy our Pioneer Woman Lemon bars or the easy-to-make Sugar Donut Bread.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Ingredients
• Perfect for a sweet snack!
For the Bread
- Unsalted Butter – 1/2 cup: Adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – 1 cup: Provides sweetness and assists in browning the crust.
- Lemon Zest – 3 tbsp: Infuses a vibrant lemon flavor; fresh is best for the most intense taste.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 1/2 tsp: Deepens the overall flavor profile of the bread.
- Eggs – 3: Essential for structure and moisture; make sure they are at room temperature.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 2/3 cups: The backbone of the bread; avoid substituting without adjusting liquids.
- Poppy Seeds – 2 tbsp: Adds delightful texture and a touch of nuttiness without soaking.
- Baking Powder – 1 tsp: This leavening agent helps the bread rise beautifully.
- Baking Soda – 1/4 tsp: Works with acidic ingredients for optimal leavening.
- Salt – 1/2 tsp: Elevates all the flavors in the bread.
- Sour Cream – 1/2 cup: Keeps the bread moist and adds a slight tang; Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
- Milk – 1/4 cup: Contributes moisture; 2% works well, but any milk type can be used.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – 2 tbsp: Enhances the lemon flavor; fresh juice is highly recommended.
For the Glaze
- Granulated Sugar – 1/4 cup: Sweetens the glaze perfectly.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – 1/4 cup: Provides the acidity that balances out the sweetness of the glaze, making it extra delightful.
Get ready to whip up this lovely Lemon Poppy Seed Bread that will surely brighten your day!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take an 8×4-inch loaf pan and lightly spray or grease it to ensure the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread releases easily after baking. It’s important to prepare the pan ahead of time, as this will make your baking process smoother.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s pale in color and has a creamy texture, which will help give our bread a moist crumb.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This should take about 2 minutes in total. The eggs will help to provide moisture and structure to the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, so be sure to mix until smooth after each addition.
Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, as this will help your bread rise evenly and achieve that delightful light texture. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, and fresh lemon juice until smooth. This wet mixture adds moisture and tang to the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, making it incredibly tender. Ensure the sour cream is well blended before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
On low speed, alternate adding the dry and wet mixtures to the stand mixer, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Do this in three additions, mixing just until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bread dense; the goal is a soft, fluffy batter.
Step 7: Pour into the Loaf Pan
Once you have a smooth batter, pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the top is level, which will help the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread bake uniformly. Now, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes.
Step 8: Test for Doneness
After about 45 minutes, begin checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the bread. The bread is ready when the tester comes out mostly clean, not runny. If necessary, tent the loaf with foil if the top is browning too quickly, then allow it to continue baking.
Step 9: Cool in the Pan
Once baked, remove the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread and let it cool in the pan for 30 minutes. This resting time helps the bread set, making it easier to slice later. After cooling, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread cools, combine the granulated sugar and lemon juice for the glaze in a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally to ensure a smooth consistency. Once dissolved, set aside to cool slightly while you poke holes in the top of the bread.
Step 11: Glaze the Bread
After the loaf has completely cooled, use a cake tester or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the bread. Pour the glaze evenly over the surface, allowing it to soak into the holes for added flavor. Let the glaze set for about 20 minutes before slicing, creating a sweet-tart finish to your Lemon Poppy Seed Bread.
What to Serve with Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
The perfect meal deserves to be paired with delightful side dishes that amplify the lemony goodness of your bread.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: A mix of thick yogurt, fresh berries, and honey balances the sweetness of the bread beautifully, perfect for a refreshing breakfast.
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Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A dash of herbs mixed with cream cheese provides a savory contrast, enhancing the flavor while maintaining the lightness of the bread.
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Citrusy Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, citrus segments, and a simple vinaigrette can brighten the palate and complement the zesty notes in each slice.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink echoes the lemonade flavor, making each bite of bread feel like a sumptuous treat on a sunny day.
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Assorted Nuts: A handful of salty almonds or walnuts adds a delightful crunch, offering a contrast to the moist bread while satisfying your snack cravings.
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Fresh Berries: Serve alongside tart raspberries or sweet blueberries. The burst of flavor from the fruit creates a symphony of taste that matches the bread’s brightness.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this delightful recipe to suit your tastes!
- Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract for a warm, nutty flavor that complements the citrus beautifully.
- Nutty Topping: Add chopped walnuts or sliced almonds on top before baking to add a delightful crunch and elevate the texture.
- Citrus Fusion: Enhance the lemon flavor by mixing in some orange or lime zest—this delightful twist promises a fresh burst of citrus.
- Berry Bliss: Toss in a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that adds both flavor and vibrant color. Imagine savoring slices speckled with ruby-red jewels!
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy milk and yogurt alternatives for a dairy-free approach that retains moisture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Feel free to drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for an indulgent touch, creating a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.
- Spiced Variation: Add a teaspoon of cardamom or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a cozy, spiced twist that turns this bread into a comforting treat.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins: Transform this recipe into muffins by adjusting the baking time—perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack!
Let your imagination run wild and remember there are endless ways to enjoy this delightful quick bread. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our Banana Bread Brownies for another delightful treat!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Room Temperature: Store the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps it moist and flavorful without the need for refrigeration.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, this bread can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; however, note that refrigeration may dry it out slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the completely cooled bread tightly in foil, then place it in a Ziploc bag. It freezes well for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly for an added crunch. Enjoy that delicious zesty flavor fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Poppy Seed Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients, but avoid adding the poppy seeds until you’re ready to bake, as this preserves their freshness. Store the prepped batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into the pan and pop it in the oven as usual. You’ll be rewarded with a delightful loaf that’s just as moist and flavorful as if it were made fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
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Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature ensures they blend more smoothly into the batter, helping create a moist and tender loaf.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, which isn’t what we want!
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Tent with Foil: To prevent over-browning, cover the loaf with foil during the last part of baking if it becomes too dark before it’s fully cooked.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain the bread’s moisture and flavor.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right lemons for my Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
Absolutely! Choose lemons that are firm and smooth, with a bright yellow color. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Avoid lemons with dark spots or a dull appearance, as these can be past their prime. Freshly zested lemons will give your bread the vibrant flavor it deserves.
How should I store leftover Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
You can keep leftover Lemon Poppy Seed Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain its moisture and keeps it flavorful. If you’d like, you can place it in the fridge, but be aware it may dry out slightly.
Can I freeze this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a Ziploc bag to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature.
What should I do if my bread sinks in the middle?
Very common! If your Lemon Poppy Seed Bread sinks, it could be due to underbaking or adding too much liquid. To troubleshoot, ensure your oven temperature is accurate using an oven thermometer. Also, make sure to test the bread for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean. If it’s still too wet, continue baking with foil tented over the top to prevent over-browning.
Is Lemon Poppy Seed Bread safe for pets?
It’s best to keep Lemon Poppy Seed Bread away from pets, especially dogs and cats. Ingredients like sugar and lemon can be harmful to them. If you’re sharing the kitchen and want to treat your furry friends, I recommend making a pet-friendly recipe instead.
Can I use alternative flours in this recipe?
You can, but with caution! If you’re considering gluten-free options, you can try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, be mindful that texture and rising might be different. For best results, I suggest not substituting the flour without adjusting other ingredients accordingly. Enjoy experimenting!
Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Bread for a Zesty Snack Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x4-inch loaf pan by greasing it.
- In a stand mixer, combine unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- In another bowl, combine sour cream, milk, and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
- Alternately add dry and wet ingredients to the stand mixer, starting and ending with dry. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and level the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Combine granulated sugar and lemon juice for the glaze and heat until sugar dissolves.
- Poke holes in the cooled bread, then pour the glaze over the top. Let it set for 20 minutes before slicing.
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