# Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with a Lemon Glaze
Enjoying the sweet and tangy Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with a Lemon Glaze is a delightful way to brighten your day! This loaf strikes a perfect balance between zesty and sweet flavours, making it a treat you can’t resist at any time of the day.
Prep Times: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices
## Why Make This Recipe
Making this Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf opens you up to a burst of fresh lemony goodness, with a desirable moist interior loaded with poppy seeds. The lemon glaze on top adds a tangy sweetness that rounds it all off. Perfect for breakfast, dessert or to enjoy as a snack!
## How to make Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
## Ingredients
For the Loaf:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp poppy seeds
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup milk
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
## Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan of 9×5-inch size.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Keep this aside for later.
3. Now in a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
5. Stir in milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually combine the dry ingredients you set aside into this mix. Make sure not to overmix.
7. Pour this batter into the pre-prepared loaf pan and smoothen the top. Bake it for about 45-50 minutes. Check the readiness by inserting a toothpick into the center, which should come out clean when the loaf is ready.
8. Leave the cooked loaf in the pan to cool for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
9. As the loaf cools, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add more lemon juice if required!
10. Once the loaf has completely cooled down, you can drizzle this zesty glaze over the top. Cut into slices and serve!
## How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is best served at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with black coffee or a tall glass of cold milk.
## How to Store Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
To store the loaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
## Tips to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
– Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before you start.
– Avoid overmixing the batter as it can turn the loaf dense.
– Wait until the loaf has completely cooled before applying the glaze.
## Variation
If you want to add a twist to your loaf, consider adding a layer of cream cheese frosting along with the lemon glaze.
## FAQs
1. Can I make this loaf without poppy seeds?
– Yes, you can. It’ll still have a great lemon taste.
2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
– Yes, you can, but fresh lemon juice will give better flavor.
3. How can I make sure my loaf doesn’t stick to the pan?
– You can use a nonstick loaf pan or line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.