Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

If you're searching for a delightful and vibrant addition to your baking repertoire, look no further than the Zesty Sunshine Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf. This recipe combines refreshing citrus flavors with the unique crunch of poppy seeds, creating a loaf that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. The bright notes of lemon paired with the subtle nuttiness of poppy seeds make this loaf an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

Brighten your baking with the Zesty Sunshine Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf! This delightful recipe combines refreshing lemon flavor and the unique crunch of poppy seeds, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredients, you'll create a visually stunning and delicious loaf that’s sure to impress. Celebrate the joy of homemade treats with this citrusy favorite and bring a slice of sunshine to your table!

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Ingredients

For the loaf:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons poppy seeds

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it, or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds. Once combined, set the bowl aside for later use.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take around 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings: Introduce the eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the freshly grated lemon zest, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter, mixing just until you no longer see streaks of flour. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.

Pour into Loaf Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.

Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking around the 50-minute mark to avoid over-baking.

Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice; if it’s too thin, incorporate additional powdered sugar.

Drizzle the Glaze: Once the loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a lovely finish.

Serve: Slice up your beautiful loaf and serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. Relish in the refreshing taste of your Zesty Sunshine Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 8-10 slices

Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, place the sliced loaf on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra poppy seeds.