Spring Awakening: Luscious Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf with Silky Smooth Icing

Embrace the essence of spring with every slice of this Luscious Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf. Infused with the zesty vibrancy of fresh lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds, this loaf is a refreshing treat that dances on the palate. Finished with a drizzle of silky smooth icing, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, promising a mouthwatering experience that encapsulates the joyful spirit of spring.

Why You’ll Love This:

This Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf is a celebration of spring in every bite, combining the bright, tart flavors of lemon with the subtle, nutty crunch of poppy seeds for a truly divine taste experience. The addition of a light, sweet icing elevates it from a simple baked good to an exquisite dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s the kind of loaf that makes you pause to savor each bite, making it a memorable treat for any occasion.

Perfect Occasion:

This delightful loaf is a versatile choice for any springtime gathering, from Easter brunches to Mother’s Day celebrations, or simply as a splendid way to welcome the warmer weather with friends and family. It’s also an excellent option for afternoon tea, serving as a sophisticated and refreshing complement to your favorite blend.

Decoration Tips:

• Garnish the icing with additional lemon zest for a burst of color and flavor.
• A sprinkling of poppy seeds on top of the icing adds texture and visual appeal.
• Edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, can provide a beautiful springtime decoration.
• For a festive touch, consider using thin lemon slices as garnish, arranging them in a fan shape or along the edges of the loaf.

Ingredients:

• Just under 1 cup of sugar
• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp of sea salt
• ½ tsp of baking soda
• 1 tsp of baking powder
• Zest from 1 whole lemon
• 2/3 cup of milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup of plain yogurt
• 1/3 cup of olive oil
• 3 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp of poppy seeds

For the Icing:

• 1 cup of powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp of milk

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a larger bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, milk, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well blended.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the poppy seeds and pour the batter into your prepared pan.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool the bread completely on a wire rack before icing.
8. For the icing, whisk powdered sugar and milk, adjusting the milk amount for desired consistency.
9. Drizzle the icing over the cooled loaf, slice, and serve to indulge in the taste of spring.

Enjoy this vibrant, zesty loaf as a bright addition to your springtime celebrations or a delightful treat to brighten any day.