Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: loaf (12 slices)
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the yogurt, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the poppy seeds until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For an extra burst of citrus flavor, consider adding a simple lemon glaze on top of the cooled lemon poppy seed bread. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle it over the bread. Allow the glaze to set before slicing for a delightful finishing touch. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Enjoy the delightful combination of lemony goodness and the satisfying crunch of poppy seeds in every bite!
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 calories per slice
Keywords: Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Treat
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make bread recipe? Look no further than lemon poppy seed bread! This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. With its bright lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
To make lemon poppy seed bread, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, lemon zest, and poppy seeds. The recipe is easy to follow, and you’ll have a delicious loaf of bread in no time. Plus, if you have any leftovers, they can be frozen for later or enjoyed as muffins.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, lemon poppy seed bread is a great recipe to have in your arsenal. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how tasty it can be?
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to baking lemon poppy seed bread, choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you select the best ingredients for your recipe.
Selecting Lemons for Flavor
Lemons are a key ingredient in lemon poppy seed bread, and selecting the right ones can make a big difference in the final result. Look for lemons that are firm, smooth, and heavy for their size. They should also have a bright yellow color and a fragrant aroma. Avoid lemons that are wrinkled, soft, or have blemishes, as they may be overripe or of lower quality.
When zesting your lemons, be sure to only remove the outermost layer of the skin, as the white pith underneath can be bitter. Use a microplane or fine grater to get the most flavor out of your zest.
Types of Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are another important ingredient in lemon poppy seed bread, and there are two main types to choose from: white and black. White poppy seeds are more commonly used in baking, as they have a milder flavor and are less bitter than black poppy seeds. However, black poppy seeds can also be used if you prefer a stronger, nuttier flavor.
When purchasing poppy seeds, make sure they are fresh and have a strong aroma. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh for longer.
Flour and Leavening Agents
The type of flour and leavening agents you use can also affect the texture and rise of your lemon poppy seed bread. All-purpose flour is the most commonly used type of flour, but you can also use cake flour for a lighter, more delicate texture. Be sure to sift your flour before measuring it to ensure accurate measurements.
Baking powder and baking soda are both leavening agents that help your bread rise. Baking powder is a combination of baking soda and cream of tartar, while baking soda requires an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice or vinegar to activate. Be sure to measure your leavening agents accurately, as too much or too little can affect the texture and rise of your bread.
By following these tips and selecting the right ingredients, you can ensure that your lemon poppy seed bread turns out perfectly every time.
Equipment and Tools Needed
To make a delicious lemon poppy seed bread, you will need some essential equipment and tools. Here are the items you should have on hand before you start baking:
Mixing Bowls
You will need at least two mixing bowls to make the lemon poppy seed bread recipe. One bowl will be used to mix the dry ingredients, and the other one will be used to mix the wet ingredients. It’s a good idea to have a few extra bowls on hand in case you need them.
Measuring Implements
Accurate measurements are crucial when it comes to baking. You will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out the ingredients. Make sure you have both dry and liquid measuring cups, as well as measuring spoons that include 1/8 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon.
Baking Pans
You will need one or two loaf pans to bake the lemon poppy seed bread. The size of the pan will depend on the recipe you are using. Make sure the pan is made of a material that conducts heat evenly, such as aluminum or glass. You may also want to use parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bread from sticking to the pan.
Other optional tools that may come in handy when making lemon poppy seed bread include a whisk, rubber spatula, zester, and citrus juicer. With these essential tools and equipment, you will be well on your way to making a delicious loaf of lemon poppy seed bread that your family and friends will love.
Preparing the Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Batter
To make a delicious lemon poppy seed bread, you need to start with a well-prepared batter. Here are the steps to prepare the batter:
Mixing Dry Ingredients
First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. You can use a whisk or a fork to do this.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Next, in a separate mixing bowl, beat together the wet ingredients. The wet ingredients include the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, lemon extract, and orange juice. You can also add some lemon zest to give the bread a more intense lemon flavor. Mix the wet ingredients until they are well combined.
Combining Mixtures
Once the wet ingredients are well mixed, slowly fold in the dry ingredients, just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the bread to become tough. The batter should be smooth and evenly textured.
At this point, you can also add some additional ingredients, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired. Once everything is well combined, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
By following these steps, you can make a delicious lemon poppy seed bread that is sure to impress.
Baking the Bread
Once you have prepared the lemon poppy seed bread batter, it’s time to bake it. Follow these simple steps to ensure that your bread comes out perfectly moist and flavorful.
Preheating the Oven
Before you start baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature when you put in the bread. It’s important to preheat the oven for at least 10-15 minutes before baking.
Baking Time and Temperature
The baking time and temperature may vary depending on your oven and the size of your loaf pan. Generally, it takes about 55 minutes to 1 hour to bake a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf. However, you should start checking the bread after 50 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Testing for Doneness
To check if your lemon poppy seed bread is done, insert a toothpick or a cake tester in the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If there are still some crumbs sticking to the toothpick, bake the bread for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Remember to let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and transferring it to a wire rack. This will prevent the bread from breaking apart. Once the bread has cooled completely, slice it and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee.
Happy baking!
Glazing and Topping Options
Lemon poppy seed bread is delicious on its own, but adding a glaze or topping can take it to the next level. Here are some options to consider:
Lemon Glaze Preparation
A lemon glaze is a classic topping for lemon poppy seed bread. To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl until the sugar is dissolved. You can adjust the texture by adding more or less lemon juice. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less liquid. If you want a thinner glaze, add more liquid.
Applying the Glaze
Once you have prepared the glaze, wait until the bread has cooled before applying it. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the bread, using a spoon or a pastry bag. You can also spread the glaze over the entire surface of the bread with a spatula. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Alternative Toppings
If you want to try something different, here are some alternative toppings to consider:
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the frosting over the top of the bread.
- Candied Lemon Slices: Slice a lemon thinly and remove the seeds. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water and bring to a boil. Add the lemon slices and simmer until the liquid has thickened and the lemon slices are translucent. Let the slices cool before arranging them on top of the bread.
- Almond Slices: Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown. Sprinkle the almonds over the top of the bread before baking.
- Poppy Seeds: Sprinkle additional poppy seeds over the top of the bread before baking for extra crunch.
Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination. Whether you stick with a classic lemon glaze or try something new, your lemon poppy seed bread is sure to be a hit.
Serving and Presentation
Once you’ve baked your delicious lemon poppy seed bread, it’s time to serve and present it to your guests or family members. Here are a few tips to make sure your bread looks as good as it tastes:
Slicing the Bread
Before you slice the bread, make sure it has cooled down completely. If you try to slice it while it’s still warm, it will crumble and fall apart. Once it has cooled, use a serrated knife to cut the bread into even slices. A serrated knife will help you get clean, straight slices without squishing the bread.
Plating Suggestions
Once you’ve sliced the bread, it’s time to plate it. There are many ways to present your lemon poppy seed bread, but here are a few suggestions:
- Serve it on a wooden cutting board with a few slices of lemon on the side.
- Cut the bread into small squares and serve them on a platter with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of poppy seeds on top.
- Toast the bread and spread a layer of cream cheese on top for a delicious breakfast or snack.
No matter how you choose to present your lemon poppy seed bread, make sure to sprinkle a few poppy seeds on top for an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Remember, the presentation of your bread is just as important as the taste. With these tips, you’ll be able to serve your lemon poppy seed bread in a way that is both beautiful and delicious.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once you’ve baked your delicious lemon poppy seed bread, you need to know how to store it to make it last as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your bread.
Storing at Room Temperature
Lemon poppy seed bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent air from getting to the bread and drying it out. You can also place it in an airtight container.
If you want to keep your bread fresh for longer than 2 days, it’s best to store it in the freezer.
Freezing for Longevity
To freeze your lemon poppy seed bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to label the container or bag with the date so you know when you put it in the freezer.
Lemon poppy seed bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. Once it’s thawed, you can enjoy it as if it were freshly baked.
It’s important to note that freezing can affect the texture of the bread. When you thaw it, it may be a little bit drier than it was before. However, this shouldn’t affect the taste too much.
In summary, to keep your lemon poppy seed bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
If you are looking for a healthy and delicious breakfast or snack option, lemon poppy seed bread is a great choice. This bread is low in fat and calories, and it is a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
Here is the nutritional information for one slice of lemon poppy seed bread:
- Calories: 258 cal
- Carbohydrates: 39.9 g
- Protein: 7.2 g
- Fat: 9.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
- Cholesterol: 24 mg
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fiber: 2.7 g
- Sugar: 19.8 g
As you can see, lemon poppy seed bread is a good source of energy and nutrients. It is also relatively low in fat and calories, which makes it a great option for people who are watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
If you are looking for ways to make your lemon poppy seed bread even healthier, you can try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour is higher in fiber and nutrients than all-purpose flour, which makes it a healthier choice.
Another way to make your lemon poppy seed bread healthier is to use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Natural sweeteners are lower in calories and have more nutrients than refined sugar, which makes them a better choice for your health.
In conclusion, lemon poppy seed bread is a delicious and healthy choice for breakfast or snack. By using whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, you can make this bread even healthier and more nutritious.
Customizing the Recipe
Once you have mastered the basic lemon poppy seed bread recipe, you may want to experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Vegan and Gluten-Free Variations
If you are following a vegan or gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavor of lemon poppy seed bread. Simply substitute the following ingredients:
Ingredient | Substitute |
---|---|
Eggs | 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana |
Butter | Vegan butter or coconut oil |
Yogurt | Coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt |
All-Purpose Flour | Gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour |
Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the bread may vary slightly depending on the substitutions you make. Be sure to follow the recipe closely and adjust the baking time if necessary.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
If you prefer your lemon poppy seed bread to be less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Alternatively, if you have a sweet tooth, you can increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
Another way to adjust the sweetness level is by adding or reducing the amount of lemon juice and zest. More lemon juice and zest will give the bread a more tart flavor, while less lemon juice and zest will make it milder.
Remember to taste the batter before baking to ensure that it meets your desired sweetness level.
By customizing the recipe, you can create a lemon poppy seed bread that is tailored to your taste buds or dietary needs. Try out different variations until you find the perfect recipe for you.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’re experiencing problems with your lemon poppy seed bread, don’t worry. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Dense or Dry Bread
If your lemon poppy seed bread is dense or dry, it could be due to overmixing or overbaking. Overmixing can cause gluten to develop, resulting in a dense texture. Overbaking can dry out the bread, making it crumbly.
To avoid these issues, be sure to mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Don’t overmix. Also, be sure to check the bread for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If it comes out with batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Uneven Baking
If your lemon poppy seed bread is unevenly baked, it could be due to an uneven oven temperature or an unevenly filled pan. Uneven oven temperatures can cause one part of the bread to bake faster than the other. An unevenly filled pan can cause one part of the bread to rise more than the other.
To avoid these issues, be sure to preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to check the temperature. Also, be sure to fill the pan evenly with batter. You can use a kitchen scale to measure the batter if necessary.
By following these tips, you can troubleshoot common issues with your lemon poppy seed bread and ensure that it turns out perfectly every time.
External Resources
If you’re looking for more lemon poppy seed bread recipes or want to perfect your baking techniques, here are some external resources that can help you out.
Additional Lemon Poppy Seed Recipes
- Sally’s Baking Addiction: This recipe uses room temperature ingredients to create a seamless and evenly textured batter. The recipe also includes a simple glaze that adds a sweet and tangy finish to the bread.
- Tastes Better From Scratch: This recipe uses a combination of oil or butter, yogurt, and lemon zest to create a moist and flavorful bread. The recipe also includes tips for baking the bread to perfection.
- Del’s cooking twist: This recipe uses sifted flour and room temperature ingredients to create a light and fluffy bread. The recipe also includes a lemon syrup that adds a burst of lemon flavor to every bite.
- Julie Blanner: This recipe uses simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs to create a classic lemon poppy seed bread. The recipe also includes tips for storing and freezing the bread.
Baking Technique Tutorials
- Baking Basics: 10 Tips for Baking Better Bread: This tutorial from Food Network provides tips for measuring ingredients, kneading dough, and shaping bread to help you create perfect loaves every time.
- How to Make Quick Bread: This tutorial from Better Homes & Gardens explains the differences between quick breads and yeast breads and provides tips for mixing and baking quick breads like lemon poppy seed bread.
- How to Store Quick Bread: This tutorial from Taste of Home provides tips for storing quick breads like lemon poppy seed bread to keep them fresh and moist for longer.
By using these external resources, you can expand your baking knowledge and create the perfect lemon poppy seed bread every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to making moist lemon poppy seed bread?
The secret to making moist lemon poppy seed bread is to not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dry texture. Also, using a combination of oil and butter in the recipe can help to keep the bread moist. Adding sour cream or yogurt to the batter can also help to keep the bread moist.
Can you use cake mix to make lemon poppy seed bread, and how?
Yes, you can use cake mix to make lemon poppy seed bread. To make it, simply mix a box of lemon cake mix with some poppy seeds, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add in the wet ingredients like eggs, oil, and water, and mix until well combined. Pour the batter into a loaf pan and bake according to the cake mix instructions.
What are the best practices for soaking poppy seeds before baking?
Soaking poppy seeds before baking is not necessary, but some bakers like to soak them in warm water or warm milk to soften the slightly hard outermost part of the poppyseed. If you decide to soak the seeds, make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before using.
How can you make a healthier version of lemon poppy seed bread?
To make a healthier version of lemon poppy seed bread, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of white sugar. Additionally, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas instead of oil or butter to reduce the fat content.
What is the difference between lemon poppy seed bread and muffins?
Lemon poppy seed bread and muffins are similar in flavor, but the main difference is in the texture. Bread is denser and has a firmer crumb, while muffins are lighter and have a softer crumb. Lemon poppy seed bread is also typically baked in a loaf pan, while muffins are baked in individual muffin cups.
How can you tell if poppy seeds have gone bad?
Poppy seeds can go bad and become rancid over time. To tell if poppy seeds have gone bad, simply smell them. If they have a stale or musty odor, they are no longer fresh and should be discarded.
External Links
Looking for more inspiration and variations for your lemon poppy seed bread recipe? Here are some external links to check out:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction: This recipe uses oil instead of butter for extra moisture and skips the mixer, making it a quick and easy recipe to follow. It also includes a delicious lemon glaze that adds a sweet and tangy finish to the bread.
- Tastes Better From Scratch: This recipe uses both oil and Greek yogurt for an extra moist and fluffy texture. It also includes a step-by-step guide with pictures to make it easy to follow.
- Del’s cooking twist: This recipe uses both lemon zest and lemon juice for a strong lemon flavor. It also includes a list of possible variations, such as adding blueberries or raspberries to the batter.
- Julie Blanner: This recipe uses both oil and sour cream for a moist and tender crumb. It also includes tips for making a gluten-free version of the bread.
- Broma Bakery: This recipe uses a combination of both lemon zest and lemon juice to give the bread a bright and tangy flavor. It also includes a helpful video tutorial to guide you through the recipe.
These external links provide a variety of options for you to explore and choose from when making your lemon poppy seed bread recipe. Whether you want a quick and easy recipe or one with a strong lemon flavor, there is something for everyone to try.
More FAQs
Here are some more frequently asked questions about lemon poppy seed bread:
What happens if you don’t soak poppy seeds?
Soaking poppy seeds before using them in a recipe can help to soften them and release their flavor. However, if you don’t soak them, it’s not the end of the world. The poppy seeds will still add a nice crunch and flavor to your lemon poppy seed bread. Just make sure to mix them well into the batter.
Should poppy seeds be soaked before baking?
Soaking poppy seeds is not necessary before baking, but it can help to soften them and release their flavor. If you have the time, it’s a good idea to soak them for at least 30 minutes before using them in your lemon poppy seed bread recipe. To soak them, simply place the poppy seeds in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them sit for 30 minutes, then drain and rinse them before using.
What is a good substitute for poppy seeds in baking?
If you don’t have poppy seeds or can’t eat them, there are a few good substitutes you can use in your lemon poppy seed bread recipe. Sesame seeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds can all be used as a substitute for poppy seeds. They will add a similar crunch and texture to your bread.
What is a substitute for poppy seeds in lemon cake?
If you’re making a lemon cake recipe that calls for poppy seeds but you don’t have any on hand, you can use any of the substitutes mentioned above. Alternatively, you can simply leave the poppy seeds out of the recipe altogether. The lemon flavor will still shine through, and your cake will be just as delicious.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made a delicious lemon poppy seed bread. This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert.
Remember that the key to making a great lemon poppy seed bread is to use fresh ingredients, follow the recipe closely, and make sure to mix all the ingredients well. You can also experiment with different variations of this recipe by adding ingredients like blueberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips.
To recap, here are some key takeaways from this recipe:
- Lemon poppy seed bread is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.
- This recipe uses simple ingredients that can be found in most kitchens.
- Mixing the ingredients well and using fresh ingredients is crucial to making a great bread.
- You can experiment with different variations of this recipe to create your own unique version of lemon poppy seed bread.
We hope you enjoyed making this recipe and that it becomes a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!