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Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf: Zesty, Moist, and Effortlessly Delicious

This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is a delightful treat bursting with zesty flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Cakes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Loaf
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Consider using a gluten-free blend if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda No substitutes recommended.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Essential for flavor balance.
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds You can use black sesame seeds for a change.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Plant-based butter can be used as a dairy-free substitute.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Avoid substitutes for texture, though flax eggs work for vegan options.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
  • ½ cup plain yogurt or buttermilk Use dairy-free yogurt for dairy-free options.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Fresh lemons are best, but lime zest can work too.
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice Feel free to use other citrus juices for variation.
Optional Lemon Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Creates a beautiful finish on the loaf.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Always opt for fresh for the best flavor.

Equipment

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla.
  5. Stir in the yogurt (or buttermilk), lemon juice, and zest until just combined.
  6. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  9. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  10. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice, then drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light texture.

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