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The Best Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Cake

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This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Cake is a bright and flavorful treat that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert, it’s easy to make, affordable, and loved by everyone who tries it.

Ingredients

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  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, then lightly dust with flour. You can also line the pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
  5. Mix in the yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the batter is uniform and smooth.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
  8. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Begin checking at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  9. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Optional: For a lemon glaze, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender.

The loaf can be customized with blueberries, nuts, or alternative citrus.

Find it online: https://quickrecipetricks.com/the-best-lemon-poppy-seed-loaf-cake/