Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Name: Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 2 tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup buttermilk; Zest of 2 Meyer lemons; ¼ cup fresh Meyer lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh Meyer lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

Enjoy the bright, zesty flavor of Meyer lemons in this delightful poppy seed bread, perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:21:49.148Z

This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a deliciously light and refreshing twist on a classic recipe. The addition of poppy seeds gives it a delightful crunch, while the Meyer lemons add a unique sweetness that sets it apart from traditional lemon bread.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, citrusy flavor that awakens your senses
Tender crumb with a satisfying crunch from poppy seeds
Perfectly sweet for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Magic of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a sweeter and less acidic flavor compared to regular lemons. This unique taste profile enhances the bread, bringing a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch of poppy seeds. Incorporating Meyer lemons into your baking not only elevates the flavor but also adds a vibrant yellow hue that makes your bread visually appealing.

In addition to their great taste, Meyer lemons are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this bread not just delicious but also a healthier option for your breakfast or snack time. Their zest infuses the batter with aromatic oils, creating a fragrant treat that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents while baking.

Baking Tips for Perfect Poppy Seed Bread

To achieve a tender crumb in your Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, be careful not to overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. A few lumps are okay; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which will help incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

When it comes to baking time, ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested time. Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. Allowing it to cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and prevents it from breaking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Enjoy this Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread warm, straight out of the oven, or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a spread of cream cheese or a dollop of lemon curd for an extra citrusy kick. Alternatively, consider serving it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat that will impress your guests.

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for additional texture, or incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or blueberries for a touch of sweetness. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as blood oranges or limes, to create your own unique version of this delicious bread.

Ingredients

For the Bread

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk
Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
¼ cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh Meyer lemon juice

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, buttermilk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the bread is baking, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze and Cool

Once the bread is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread.

Allow the glaze to 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 for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.

If you notice any leftover glaze, store it separately in the refrigerator. You can drizzle it over individual slices when serving, ensuring each piece is fresh and zesty. This method also allows you to control the amount of glaze on each slice, making it a perfect option for gatherings.

Nutritional Benefits

This Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also contains several nutritional benefits. The inclusion of poppy seeds adds a dose of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. These nutrients are vital for maintaining strong bones and overall health.

Additionally, the use of buttermilk in the recipe provides probiotics that promote gut health. Meyer lemons offer a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. Therefore, indulging in this bread can be a delightful way to incorporate some beneficial nutrients into your diet while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, regular lemons can be used, but the flavor will be more tart.

→ How do I store the bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread?

This bread is delicious on its own or served with butter, cream cheese, or a light fruit spread.