If you love bright citrus flavors and a perfectly moist, tender crumb, this Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is about to become your new favorite treat! Infused with fresh lemon juice, zest, and crunchy poppy seeds, this loaf is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet. Plus, a luscious lemon glaze drizzled on top takes it to the next level!
Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this loaf is easy to make, full of fresh flavor, and pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Let’s get baking! And if you love citrusy, sweet treats, be sure to subscribe for more delicious recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
- Bright and refreshing lemon flavor in every bite! 🍋
- Moist and tender texture with a light crunch from the poppy seeds.
- Simple ingredients—most of which you already have at home!
- Perfect for any occasion—breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack.
- Topped with a sweet-tangy lemon glaze for extra flavor!
What Does This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Taste Like?
Imagine a buttery, soft loaf with a zesty lemon kick that’s perfectly balanced by a light sweetness. The poppy seeds add a subtle crunch, and the lemon glaze gives it an extra burst of citrusy goodness. Every bite is bright, refreshing, and irresistibly soft—perfect for lemon lovers!
Ingredients for Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
For the Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅔ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Loaf pan (8.5×4.5 or 9×5 inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk & spatula
- Zester & juicer
- Wire rack for cooling
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Want extra lemon flavor? Add ½ teaspoon lemon extract.
- No buttermilk? Use regular milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Prefer a dairy-free version? Swap butter for coconut oil and use almond milk.
- Love extra crunch? Add a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts.
How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
1. Prepare the Loaf Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, poppy seeds, and lemon zest.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Mix the Batter
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix! The batter will be thick.
5. Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Glaze
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While it cools, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest for the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled loaf, let it set, then slice and enjoy!
What to Serve with Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
This loaf pairs wonderfully with:
- A cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Fresh berries for a fruity contrast.
- A dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
- A side of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast.
Tips for the Best Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter—it keeps the loaf light and tender.
- Let the loaf cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- For extra moisture, brush the loaf with a little lemon syrup before glazing.
How to Store & Freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
Do I have to use poppy seeds?
No! You can omit them or swap them for chia seeds.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Try This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Today!
This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is bursting with bright citrus flavor and the perfect balance of soft, moist texture with a light crunch. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, it’s guaranteed to impress!
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest so you can make it again. Happy baking! 🍋💛