Name: Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups (265 g) unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp poppy seeds; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/4 cups (265 g) sugar; 3 lemons, zest finely grated; 3 eggs; 1/2 cup (125 ml) lemon juice; 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk; 1 cup (130 g) icing sugar; 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of lemon and poppy seeds is a timeless classic, and this loaf takes it to the next level. The cake is light and airy, with a subtle lemon flavor that isn’t overpowering. The glaze adds a nice touch of sweetness, making this loaf irresistible. It’s an easy, one-bowl recipe that produces a delicious result every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Loaf:

1 3/4 cups (265 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
1 tbsp poppy seeds
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups (265 g) sugar
3 lemons, zest finely grated
3 eggs
1/2 cup (125 ml) lemon juice
1/4 cup (60 ml) milk

For the Glaze:

1 cup (130 g) icing sugar
2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a 4 x 10-inch (10 x 25 cm) loaf pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over two sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, and baking powder.
In another bowl, cream the butter, sugar, and lemon zest using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until smooth.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and lemon juice with milk into the butter mixture. Stir until well combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool completely on a wire rack before unmolding it.
For the glaze, whisk the icing sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Add blueberries: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for an extra fruity twist.
Use a different citrus: Experiment with lime or orange zest for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of salt: For a more balanced flavor, a pinch of salt in the batter can enhance the sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the loaf after cooling completely. Thaw before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different flour?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf, though the texture may be denser.

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free flour blend should work, though results may vary. Be sure to use a blend designed for baking.

How do I know when the loaf is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make this loaf without the glaze?

Yes, the loaf is delicious even without the glaze, but it adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Can I make this loaf in advance?

Yes, this loaf stores well for a couple of days, and the flavor often improves overnight.

How can I prevent the loaf from being too dry?

Be sure to measure the flour correctly and not overmix the batter to ensure the loaf stays moist.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for more control over the loaf’s flavor, but if using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.

How do I store leftover loaf?

Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I make this loaf into muffins?

Yes, you can make muffins by dividing the batter into a muffin tin and baking for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

This lemon poppy seed loaf is an easy-to-make, refreshing treat that will brighten any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, it’s a flavorful loaf that’s sure to please. The lemon glaze adds a perfect finishing touch, making it extra special.

Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This lemon poppy seed loaf is a light, moist, and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. The zing of fresh lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds make it a refreshing option for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with tea. Topped with a sweet lemon glaze, this loaf is irresistible and easy to make, using simple ingredients in just one bowl.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a 4 x 10-inch (10 x 25 cm) loaf pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over two sides for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, and baking powder.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the butter, sugar, and lemon zest using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until smooth after each addition.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the lemon juice with milk into the butter mixture. Stir until well combined.
Bake: Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the loaf cool completely on a wire rack before unmolding it.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Glaze the Loaf: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and serve.

Notes

Add Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries make a great addition to the batter for an extra fruity twist.

Citrus Variations: Try using lime or orange zest for a different flavor profile.

Pinch of Salt: A small pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the loaf.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American