Description
This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a moist and fluffy quick bread bursting with fresh lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds. It combines tangy Greek yogurt and zesty lemon for a bright, refreshing treat perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. The loaf is topped with a simple lemon glaze that adds a sweet and tart finish. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (or substitute with oil or coconut oil)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (about 1 large or 2 small lemons)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, melted butter (or oil/coconut oil), Greek yogurt, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
- Fold Dry into Wet: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently just until everything is combined—do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
- Prepare and Add Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice to create the glaze. Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a light crumb.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting off.
- You can substitute the butter with equal parts oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For an extra lemony flavor, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American