Ingredients:
For the Loaf:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze) or more lemon juice (for a thinner glaze).
- Glaze the Loaf:
- Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the lemon poppy seed loaf with lemon glaze. Enjoy this delightful and refreshing cake as a dessert or with a cup of tea or coffee.
This lemon poppy seed loaf with lemon glaze is perfect for lemon lovers and makes a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy!