Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful treat that combines the refreshing zest of Meyer lemons with the crunch of poppy seeds, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The sunny yellow color and the delightful crunch of the poppy seeds make it a perfect addition to your breakfast table or as a snack throughout the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing citrus flavor that awakens your senses
- Light and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family
The Joy of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid of a lemon and a mandarin orange, known for their thinner skin and sweeter, less acidic flavor. This unique citrus fruit adds a special touch to your baking, elevating simple recipes with its vibrant aroma and refreshing taste. When you incorporate Meyer lemon zest and juice into your bread, you not only enhance the flavor but also bring a burst of color and brightness that’s hard to resist.
Using Meyer lemons in your baking is not just about taste; it’s also about creating a sensory experience. Their fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, making every moment spent baking feel special. As you zest the lemons, the essential oils release a citrusy scent that invigorates the atmosphere, setting the stage for a delightful baking session. With each bite of this Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, you’ll appreciate the essence of these remarkable lemons.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a bright addition to your brunch table, a delightful snack to accompany your afternoon tea, or a sweet treat to share at a gathering, this bread fits the bill perfectly. Its light and fluffy texture pairs beautifully with coffee and tea, making it a favorite among friends and family.
Additionally, this bread is an excellent choice for gifting. Wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present. Its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation make it a delightful surprise for birthdays, holidays, or just because. Everyone loves a homemade treat, and this Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is sure to impress!
Tips for Baking Success
To ensure your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon and level method for flour: spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents your bread from becoming dense. Additionally, room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, create a smoother batter and contribute to a lighter texture.
Don’t forget to check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Expired leavening agents can cause your bread to bake unevenly or not rise properly. If you’re unsure, you can test baking soda by adding a bit of vinegar; it should fizz immediately. Following these simple tips will help you achieve a delicious loaf every time!
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
Mix well and ensure all ingredients are combined evenly.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk and lemon juice until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread!
Serving Suggestions
This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a glaze or spread. A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice drizzled over the top adds a sweet and tangy finish, enhancing the citrus flavor. For a more indulgent treat, consider serving it with whipped cream cheese or a lemon-infused butter.
Pair your bread with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. The citrus notes of the lemon complement the warmth of these beverages beautifully, making for a delightful experience that awakens your senses.
Storing and Freezing
To keep your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Freezing is a great way to have this delightful treat on hand for unexpected guests or cravings. No one will know it was made in advance—just warm it up, and it will taste as if it were freshly baked!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, you can use regular lemons, but the flavor will be slightly more tart.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
→ What can I serve with this bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or even a lemon glaze.
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful treat that combines the refreshing zest of Meyer lemons with the crunch of poppy seeds, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Artisan Bakery Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk and lemon juice until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g