This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is moist, tangy, and packed with the refreshing flavor of lemon. The combination of poppy seeds, lemon zest, and a sweet lemon drizzle makes for a delightful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert. The bread is easy to make and comes out soft and tender every time, with a zingy glaze that adds a perfect finishing touch.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• • 2 cups all-purpose flour

• • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg

• • 2/3 cup whole milk
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract

For the Lemon Drizzle:

• • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
   2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg until well combined. Add the milk, sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lemon extract, and whisk to combine.

1. 1. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
   2. Bake the bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
   3. Cool the bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before adding the lemon drizzle.

1. Prepare the lemon drizzle: In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, and lemon juice. Stir until you reach the desired drizzling consistency, adding more lemon juice if needed.
2. Add the drizzle: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve as a sweet breakfast loaf with coffee or tea.

• • Top with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for an extra treat.
  • Pair with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for added freshness.
  • Serve with a cup of hot herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

• Warm a slice in the microwave and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert option.

Cooking Tips:

• • Do not overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of tender and light.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature milk, egg, and sour cream help create a smooth batter and even texture.

• • Check for doneness: Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
  • Lemon variation: Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Zest the lemons before juicing them.
  • Make ahead: The bread can be baked a day in advance and drizzled with the lemon glaze before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Rich in vitamin C from the lemon juice and zest, which helps boost immunity.
  • Calcium from dairy ingredients like milk and sour cream helps maintain bone health.
  • Source of protein from eggs, which helps with muscle growth and repair.

• Healthy fats from vegetable oil contribute to satiety.
• Poppy seeds add a slight crunch and provide dietary fiber and minerals.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

• • Can be made dairy-free by using dairy-free milk and sour cream alternatives.
  • Make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Adjust sweetness by reducing the sugar in both the bread and drizzle if desired.

• No nuts make it suitable for nut allergies.

Nutritional Facts (per slice):

• • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 3g

• • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 18g

Storage:

• • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate: To keep it fresh longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. 1. Moist and tender: The sour cream makes this bread super moist with a soft crumb.
   2. Bursting with lemon flavor: Both lemon zest and juice give it a bright, fresh taste.

1. 1. Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
   2. Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack.
   3. Customizable: Easily adjust the flavors by using different citrus fruits or adding extra mix-ins.

Conclusion:

This Lemon Poppy Seed Bread with Lemon Drizzle is a delightful treat that’s sure to brighten up your day with its vibrant citrus flavor and tender texture. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s an easy and versatile recipe that the whole family will love. Make a loaf today and enjoy a slice of sunshine with every bite!