Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread (Bright, Fluffy, Best Ever)

Lemon poppy seed bread is a refreshing, fragrant bread with a delicate crumb, a burst of citrus flavor, and the added crunch of poppy seeds. Finished with a simple lemon glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.

Introduction

This lemon poppy seed bread is bursting with fresh lemon flavor and poppy seeds, making it the perfect bread for citrus lovers. The glaze adds a hint of sweetness that complements the tart lemon, making every slice a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

  • Light and fluffy: The bread is tender and soft with a perfect crumb.
  • Refreshing lemon flavor: The lemon zest and juice bring a bright citrus punch.
  • Perfect for breakfast or brunch: It’s easy to slice and serve, and it pairs well with coffee.
  • Simple glaze: The glaze is quick and easy to make, and adds a beautiful shine to the bread.
  • Freezer-friendly: Make a batch and freeze it for later enjoyment.

Ingredients for Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Ingredients for lemon poppy seed bread including lemons, butter, flour, sugar, and poppy seeds
Fresh lemons, poppy seeds, and other simple ingredients for lemon poppy seed bread

For the Bread:

  • All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base for the bread.
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bread.
  • Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the bread rise.
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness.
  • Eggs (2 large): Provides structure.
  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture.
  • Lemon zest (from 2 lemons): Bright citrus flavor.
  • Lemon juice (1/4 cup): Fresh lemony tang.
  • Poppy seeds (2 tablespoons): Adds crunch and visual appeal.
  • Milk (1/2 cup): Moistens the batter.

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the glaze.
  • Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): For a tangy glaze.
  • Milk (1 tablespoon): To thin the glaze as needed.

Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe (How to Make It)

Four-panel collage showing how to make lemon poppy seed bread from mixing to glazing
Mix, bake, and glaze to make lemon poppy seed bread that everyone will love

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Bake Time: 50–55 minutes

Servings: 8–10 slices

  • 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • 2. Mix dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • 3. Mix wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and milk.
  • 4. Combine and fold in poppy seeds. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the poppy seeds.
  • 5. Bake the bread. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • 6. Make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk.
  • 7. Glaze the bread. After the bread has cooled for 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Reader Review: “This bread is so light and refreshing! The lemon glaze makes it irresistible.”

Tips for Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

  • Don’t overmix the batter: Stir gently to keep the crumb light.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemons give the best flavor.
  • Check for doneness: Start checking around 50 minutes with a toothpick.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Blueberry lemon poppy seed: Add 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries to the batter.
  • Coconut glaze: Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
  • Dairy-free: Use non-dairy butter and milk instead of dairy.

Storing & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven at 325°F for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

  • Serve with a cup of green tea.
  • Pair with scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast.
  • Enjoy with fresh fruit for a refreshing snack.

If you make this glazed lemon poppy seed bread, leave a rating and comment!

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