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The Best Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Cake

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  • Author: laloti
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful lemon poppy seed loaf cake that captures the essence of comfort food with its bright citrus flavor and crunchy texture.


Ingredients

  • 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the loaf pan and dust with flour.
  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, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
  5. Add yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until uniform and smooth.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined.
  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. Start checking at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
  9. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For an optional glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf for extra flavor.