Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with a Lemon Glaze

Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with a Lemon Glaze is a delightful treat that pairs bright citrus flavors with a soft, tender crumb. This delightful loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. The refreshing flavor of lemon combined with the unique texture of poppy seeds makes this recipe a favorite among many. With a simple glaze to add a zingy finish, this loaf is sure to please.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is simple and uses basic ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Second, the combination of lemon and poppy seeds is refreshing and uplifting. Lastly, the loaf is versatile; you can enjoy it plain or with the sweet lemon glaze. Making this loaf fills your home with a wonderful aroma and brings a burst of sunshine to your table.

How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with a Lemon Glaze

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for glaze)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until well combined.
Combine and Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the Loaf: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Drizzle the Glaze: Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the loaf.

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

You can serve the Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf sliced, with a cup of tea or coffee. It is perfect for breakfast alongside fruit or as a sweet treat after lunch. You can even enjoy it on its own!

How to Store Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it well and freeze it for up to three months.

Tips to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a tender loaf.
For extra lemon flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can add more sugar to the batter.

Variation

You can add blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Alternatively, substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen lemons?
Yes, you can use frozen lemons for juice and zest. Just thaw them first.

2. Is it necessary to add the poppy seeds?
Poppy seeds add a unique texture and flavor to the loaf, but you can leave them out if you prefer.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the baking powder and baking soda for gluten-free certification.