Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
Enjoy a slice of this delightful Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread combines the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds, creating a deliciously unique bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing citrus flavor
- Moist and fluffy texture
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
The Perfect Morning Treat
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is not just a delightful snack; it’s an experience that brightens your morning. The unique blend of the sweet-tart Meyer lemons with crunchy poppy seeds creates a harmonious balance that elevates breakfast to new heights. Whether paired with a steaming cup of coffee or enjoyed on its own, each slice brings a refreshing burst of flavor that wakes up your senses.
This bread is versatile, making it an excellent option for various occasions. From casual weekday breakfasts to elegant brunches with friends, it fits seamlessly into any setting. Its light texture and vibrant flavor make it a popular choice for guests, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile.
Baking Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps to create a smooth batter and promotes even baking. If you forget to take your eggs and butter out in advance, simply place the eggs in warm water for a few minutes and microwave the butter for just a few seconds until softened.
Measuring your flour correctly is crucial for achieving that moist, fluffy texture. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can lead to packed flour and a denser loaf.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its fresh-baked flavor.
Serving this delightful bread is just as enjoyable as baking it. Consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the top for an added touch of sweetness. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream cheese or a spread of citrus marmalade for an extra layer of flavor that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice and enjoy your homemade Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread!
Nutritional Benefits of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, the antioxidants found in lemons help to fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases, making this bread a guilt-free indulgence.
Incorporating Meyer lemons into your diet can also enhance digestion and detoxification. Their natural acidity can aid in balancing your body's pH levels, promoting a healthy gut. So, while you enjoy this sweet treat, you're also contributing to your overall well-being.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can add in your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for an added crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also complement the citrus flavor beautifully, providing a delightful chewy texture.
For a different twist, consider substituting the poppy seeds with chia seeds or even adding a hint of lavender for a floral note. Each variation brings its own unique character to the bread, allowing you to personalize it to your taste preferences.
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 this bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
It pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even a light lemon curd.
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Enjoy a slice of this delightful Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g