Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Bright, zesty, and delightfully moist, this Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is the perfect citrusy treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Packed with fresh lemon flavor and a tender crumb dotted with crunchy poppy seeds, it’s topped with a tangy-sweet lemon glaze that takes it over the top. Whether you’re baking for spring, summer, or just because—you’re going to love every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh Citrus Flavor – Bursting with real lemon juice and zest
Super Moist – Thanks to sour cream or yogurt in the batter
Beautiful Texture – Soft inside with a slight crunch from poppy seeds
Simple to Make – One bowl and no mixer needed
Perfect for Gifting – Bake it in mini loaves to share

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Lemon Bread:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp poppy seeds
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 2 lemons
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for extra zing)

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Whisk or spatula
Zester or grater
Loaf pan (8½ x 4½-inch)
Parchment paper (optional)
Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, rub the lemon zest into the sugar with your fingers (this releases oils and amps up the flavor).
Add oil, eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients into the wet and gently fold until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Glaze the Bread
Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency with more sugar or juice as needed.
Drizzle over the cooled bread and sprinkle with lemon zest if desired.

Tips for the Best Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Use Fresh Lemons – Bottled juice won’t give the same bright flavor
Rub the Zest into the Sugar – Boosts lemon aroma and depth
Don’t Overbake – Check early and use a toothpick to avoid drying out
Let It Cool Before Glazing – So the glaze sets beautifully
Use Full-Fat Yogurt or Sour Cream – For richness and moisture

Serving Suggestions
With Tea or Coffee – A cozy morning treat
As a Brunch Addition – Pairs well with fruit and eggs
Topped with Whipped Cream – For a light dessert
Wrapped as a Gift – Perfect for spring or Mother’s Day
As a Snack – Delicious any time of day

How to Store & Freeze
Room Temperature: Store wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Keeps for 5–6 days (glaze may firm slightly)
Freezer: Freeze sliced or whole loaf, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm slices slightly in the microwave for that just-baked feel

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
   Yes! It adds the same moisture and tang with slightly more protein
2. Can I use almond or oat flour?
   This recipe works best with all-purpose, but a 1:1 gluten-free blend can be used
3. Can I skip the glaze?
   Of course—it’s optional but adds a delicious sweet-tart finish
4. What oil is best?
   Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or melted coconut oil work well
5. Can I add blueberries?
   Yes—gently fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries before baking

Final Thoughts
This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a cheerful, zesty bake that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something citrusy and comforting. Whether enjoyed with coffee, gifted to a friend, or shared at brunch, this loaf is a winner.

Bake it once and it’ll be a favorite for seasons to come!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American / Classic Bakes
Nutritional Information (Per Slice – 1 of 10):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 22g | Sodium: 210mg

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