Description
The Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with Zingy Glaze is a simple, yet utterly satisfying treat. This loaf stands out because it is incredibly moist, thanks to the use of sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and neutral oil. The poppy seeds add a delightful crunch and texture, while the zingy glaze drizzled on top provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. This recipe is a modern take on a traditional lemon poppy seed cake, but with an added twist of freshness from the homemade lemon glaze.
Ingredients
Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 tbsp poppy seeds
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
Zest of 2 large lemons
½ cup (120ml) neutral oil or melted butter
2 large eggs, room temp
½ cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds moisture!)
¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1–2 tbsp milk if batter seems very thick
Zingy Lemon Glaze
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (start with 2, add more if needed)
Optional: a little lemon zest for extra punch
Instructions
1. Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Grease and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment (for easy lift-out).
2. Infuse Sugar with Zest (Flavor Trick!)
In a bowl, rub lemon zest into the granulated sugar with your fingers until fragrant and slightly yellow. (Releases oils = maximum lemon flavor)
3. Make Batter
Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
In another bowl, whisk zest-sugar, oil, eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth.
Add dry ingredients to wet and stir just until combined — don’t overmix.
4. Bake
Pour batter into pan and smooth top.
Bake 45–55 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
If browning too fast, tent loosely with foil.
5. Cool & Glaze
Cool in pan 10 mins, then transfer to rack.
While still slightly warm, pour glaze over top so it soaks in.
Let set before slicing (or slice warm if you can’t wait 😋).
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle additional lemon glaze over the cooled loaf and sprinkle with extra poppy seeds. A few thin lemon slices or a dusting of powdered sugar can make it even more visually appealing and refreshing.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
Keywords: Lemon poppy seed cake, lemon loaf, moist lemon bread, lemon cake with poppy seeds, lemon glaze loaf