If you love a moist, citrusy, and slightly nutty quick bread, this Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is the perfect treat! It’s packed with fresh zucchini, bright lemon flavor, and a delicate crunch from poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist & Tender: Thanks to the zucchini, this bread stays soft and fluffy.
- Bright & Citrusy: Lemon zest and juice bring a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Poppy seeds add texture and a mild nutty taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal effort for a delicious homemade bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Zucchini (1 cup, grated) – Adds moisture without overpowering the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure to the bread.
- Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Helps the bread rise.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors.
- Poppy Seeds (2 tbsp) – Adds a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Gives the bread the perfect level of sweetness.
- Olive Oil (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- Greek Yogurt (¼ cup) – Adds richness and a slight tang.
- Lemon Zest (1 tbsp) & Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – For that bright citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Rounds out the flavors.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grater for zucchini and lemon zest
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper
How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture with a paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and honey for extra indulgence.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Bread:
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Drain the Zucchini Well: Excess moisture can make the bread too dense.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: For the best citrus flavor.
Storing & Freezing:
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
Can I make muffins instead? Absolutely! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes.
Do I have to peel the zucchini? Nope! The peel is soft and blends into the bread.
Conclusion
This Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is a delightful mix of citrusy brightness and comforting texture. Perfect for any time of the day, it’s a must-try recipe!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 180mg

Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
If you love a moist, citrusy, and slightly nutty quick bread, this Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is the perfect treat! It’s packed with fresh zucchini, bright lemon flavor, and a delicate crunch from poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates.
Ingredients
- Zucchini (1 cup, grated) – Adds moisture without overpowering the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure to the bread.
- Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Helps the bread rise.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors.
- Poppy Seeds (2 tbsp) – Adds a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Gives the bread the perfect level of sweetness.
- Olive Oil (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- Greek Yogurt (¼ cup) – Adds richness and a slight tang.
- Lemon Zest (1 tbsp) & Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – For that bright citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Rounds out the flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture with a paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Drain the Zucchini Well: Excess moisture can make the bread too dense.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: For the best citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American