Go Back

Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf

A tender, buttery loaf with bright citrus flavor and delicate poppy seed crunch that stays incredibly moist for days
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Loaf
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup milk
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, then dust with flour.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until completely combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk.
  4. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gently fold the poppy seeds into this mixture to distribute them evenly.
  5. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the wet ingredients. Start and end with flour. Mix just until combined—you should still see a few flour streaks.
  6. Pour batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top gently. Bake for 50-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
  7. While the loaf cools for 10 minutes, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Pour over the warm loaf.

Notes

Mix dry ingredients the night before for easier morning baking. Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to one week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream, and buttermilk can replace regular milk. Don't overmix the batter - mix just until flour disappears. Use room temperature ingredients for proper emulsion.