Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab
A delightful blend of zesty Meyer lemons and crunchy poppy seeds make this bread a perfect treat for any occasion.
This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delicious and fragrant bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The unique flavor of Meyer lemons gives it a sweet and tart twist, making it a favorite among citrus lovers.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor from fresh Meyer lemons
- Crunchy texture from the poppy seeds
- Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea
The Unique Flavor of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a sweeter, less acidic taste. Their vibrant yellow skin and fragrant aroma make them a favorite among bakers and chefs alike. When incorporated into recipes like this Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, they provide a bright and zesty flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.
Not only do Meyer lemons deliver a unique taste, but they also bring a burst of freshness that complements the nutty crunch of poppy seeds. This pairing creates a harmonious balance, making each bite a refreshing experience. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a midday snack, this bread is sure to impress.
Baking Tips for Perfect Bread
Achieving the perfect texture in your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread involves careful attention to detail. Start by ensuring your butter is adequately softened; this will help achieve a light and fluffy batter. When creaming the butter and sugar, take your time to mix until the mixture is pale and airy, which helps incorporate air into the batter for a tender crumb.
Additionally, avoid overmixing once the dry ingredients are added. Stir gently until just combined to prevent the bread from becoming dense. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! These tips will help you create a beautifully risen loaf that is both moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to enjoy it. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast, or toast slices for a delightful afternoon treat. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee to enhance the experience further.
For a fun twist, consider adding some chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the batter. This not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor profile. Experimenting with different additions can personalize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
Mix all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth batter.
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 flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Lemon
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk, Meyer lemon juice, and zest.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the poppy seeds.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is baking, mix powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice to create the glaze.
Glaze the Bread
Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Let the glaze set before slicing the bread.
Storing Your Bread
To keep your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to three days, but if you want to enjoy it for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of this bread whenever you wish!
Nutritional Information
This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also contains wholesome ingredients. Each slice provides a good balance of carbohydrates and a touch of protein from the eggs and milk. The poppy seeds add a source of fiber, making this bread a more satisfying option.
While it’s best enjoyed in moderation, this bread can be part of a balanced diet. Pair it with fruits or yogurt to create a more nutritious breakfast or snack option. Just remember to account for the sugar content when planning your meals!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, but the flavor will be more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?
It pairs well with tea, coffee, or a light cream cheese spread.
Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
A delightful blend of zesty Meyer lemons and crunchy poppy seeds make this bread a perfect treat for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons 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 flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk, Meyer lemon juice, and zest.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the poppy seeds.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While the bread is baking, mix powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice to create the glaze.
Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g