## Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful addition to any dessert table, melding the tangy brightness of fresh lemons with the nutty crunch of poppy seeds. This recipe provides a sweet escape, reminiscent of sun-kissed mornings and cozy family gatherings. Imagine slicing into this golden loaf, the citrus aroma enveloping your senses, inviting you to take that first irresistible bite. Its cake-like texture melts in your mouth, making it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. Best of all, this easy-to-make treat is sure to please kids and adults alike, offering a delightful taste of nostalgia with every slice.
## What’s Your Favorite Sweet Treat That Evokes Happy Memories?
Do you remember the first time you ever tasted lemon poppy seed bread? Maybe it was shared with you at a friend’s birthday party or baked by a beloved family member? There’s something magical about certain flavors that whisk us back to cherished moments. Each bite of this luscious loaf invites you to relive those joyous experiences, evoking warmth, happiness, and plenty of sweet memories. Now imagine serving it warm from the oven, the scent wafting through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen like bees to honey. Doesn't that just make your mouth water?
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread isn’t just delicious—it’s practical and enjoyable to prepare. Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire:
- **Easy Preparation**: With straightforward steps and minimal clean-up, baking this bread is a breeze.
- **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or sharing with neighbors, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone.
- **Simple Ingredients**: You likely have most of the ingredients already stocked in your pantry.
- **Versatile**: Serve it plain or top it with a sweet glaze for that extra touch of indulgence.
- **Kid-Friendly**: This recipe invites kids into the kitchen and offers a hands-on baking experience.
## Ingredients
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 4 teaspoons poppy seeds
3. 1 teaspoon baking soda
4. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1 large egg at room temperature
7. 3/4 cup granulated sugar
8. 1/3 cup vegetable oil
9. 1/3 cup sour cream at room temperature
10. 2/3 cup whole milk at room temperature
11. 3 tablespoons lemon juice
12. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
13. 1/2 cup confectioners sugar for glaze
14. 1 tablespoon lemon juice for glaze
15. Optional: Candied lemon slices for garnish
Imagine the soft, golden crumbs lightly holding the delightful crunch of the poppy seeds, with the bright, citrusy notes dancing through each bite. The sweet glaze provides a final flourish, a glossy layer that makes it almost too pretty to eat.
## Timing
This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread strikes the perfect balance between fast and indulgent.
From mixing to serving, you can whip up this sweet treat in under two hours, making it a fantastic option for spontaneous gatherings or a satisfying dessert. Agonizing over sustainable luxury? Consider it a treat to enjoy with your family rather than an occasion—this could be part of your weekly routine.
## Step-by-Step Recipe
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray to ensure your bread releases perfectly.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. The contrasting contrast of colors from the seeds will inspire culinary delight.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and sugar together until the mixture is creamy and fully combined. Then, whisk in the oil, sour cream, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. **Make Batter**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk to combine, being careful to avoid overmixing. This will keep your loaf airy and light.
5. **Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes to an hour, covering loosely with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.
6. **Check Doneness**: Poke the center of the loaf with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
7. **Cool**: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan on a wire cooling rack. This time can feel agonizing, but your patience will pay off!
8. **Prepare Glaze**: For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners sugar and lemon juice, and then drizzle it over the warm or cooled bread.
9. **Serve**: Slice and enjoy! Cover and store any leftover bread at room temperature for two days or refrigerate for up to a week.
10. **Muffins and Mini Loaves Option**: If you’d like a mini version, grease a muffin pan and bake at 425°F for the first five minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F for another 15-17 minutes. Alternatively, for mini loaves, keep your oven at 350°F and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Each step takes your creation closer to a beautifully satisfying loaf that warms the heart.
## Nutritional Information
This delectable Lemon Poppy Seed Bread delivers about 200 calories per slice. While indulging in a slice, remember that cakes like these are a treat—meant to be savored rather than consumed in excess.
##
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re watching your sugar or calories, consider substituting with lower sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup. For a dairy-free version, swap in almond milk and yogurt. This way, you can enjoy a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
This bread is best when served warm but remains delicious at room temperature. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream on special occasions or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that decadent touch.
This versatile dessert fits into any celebration—be it Mother’s Day brunch or a cozy holiday gathering.
## Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes is overbaking, which can lead to a dry loaf. Be sure to keep a close eye during the last few minutes to avoid this. Finding texture issues? Mixing together too aggressively might lead to a dense texture rather than the fluffy loaf you desire. Be gentle!
## Storing Tips
For longer shelf life, consider freezing portions. Simply wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw on the counter and pop into a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warm.
## Tempted to Bake It ASAP?
Don’t let the thought of baking this lemony delight slip away! It’s calling your name and waiting to delight your taste buds. Gather your ingredients and bake this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread as a special treat for someone you love—or better yet, for yourself!
## Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I add nuts to this recipe?**
Yes! Chopped walnuts or almonds pair beautifully with the flavors of the bread.
2. **How should I store leftovers?**
Store at room temperature for the first two days, then move to the refrigerator for up to one week.
3. **Can I make this ahead of time?**
Absolutely! The flavors deepen with time. Just ensure you wrap it tightly to maintain freshness.
4. **How do I know when it’s done?**
A clean toothpick inserted into the center should come out without wet batter.
5. **Can I substitute all-purpose flour?**
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but adjustments may be necessary in liquids depending on the flour's absorbency.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful lemon poppy seed bread that combines tangy lemons with crunchy poppy seeds, perfect for breakfast or a light dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup sour cream at room temperature
- 2/3 cup whole milk at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar for glaze
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for glaze
- Optional: Candied lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and sugar together until creamy, then mix in oil, sour cream, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently whisk to combine, avoiding overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, covering loosely with foil halfway through.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together confectioners sugar and lemon juice, then drizzle it over the bread.
- Slice and enjoy, storing any leftovers at room temperature for two days or refrigerating for up to a week.
- Optional: For muffins or mini loaves, adjust baking time as noted in the recipe.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using lower sugar alternatives or substituting dairy-free options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
