This lemon poppy seed bread is moist and flavorful, perfect for breakfast or a light snack. It’s simple to prepare and balances tartness with sweetness, making it a favorite for many. Baking this at home will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma and provide a satisfying treat.
Why you’ll love this dish
The bright flavor of lemon combined with the crunch of poppy seeds creates a refreshing experience. It’s both comforting and invigorating.
"This bread is my go-to breakfast. It’s a burst of flavor in every slice!"
Enjoy a slice with coffee in the morning or as a midday snack. This recipe is straightforward and produces excellent results.
The cooking process explained
This recipe requires mixing wet and dry ingredients separately, then combining them. Pour into a loaf pan and bake until golden.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 50 min | Total Time: 1 hr 5 min
What you’ll need
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light lemon glaze. Pair it with coffee or tea. It’s also great with fresh fruit or yogurt on the side.
Storage and reheating tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Helpful cooking tips
- Measure flour correctly to avoid a dense loaf.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.
Creative twists
Add blueberries or walnuts for extra texture. Swap lemon zest for orange zest for a different flavor. Use buttermilk instead of yogurt for a tangy twist.
FAQ
Can I substitute yogurt?
Yes, buttermilk or sour cream works well.
How do I know when the bread is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I make mini loaves?
Yes, adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes for mini pans.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This lemon poppy seed bread is moist and flavorful, perfect for breakfast or a light snack. It balances tartness with sweetness, creating a delightful aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light lemon glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: lemon bread, poppy seed bread, quick bread, breakfast bread