Lemon Poppyseed Bread

Lemon Poppyseed Bread is soft, moist, and packed with bright lemon flavor in every bite. This easy lemon poppyseed bread recipe uses simple ingredients and bakes into a tender loaf topped with a sweet lemon glaze. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or just an easy treat any time.

My family, especially my kids, love when I make a few loaves of quick bread during the week for easy snacks. We make everything from blueberry bread to apple fritter bread, but this lemon poppyseed bread is always a favorite! It's soft, moist, and full of bright lemon flavor, and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. We love it for mid-morning snacks or an afternoon treat, and it's also great for freezing or wrapping up to share with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Bread

• Soft, moist texture in every slice
• Bright lemon flavor that isn't overpowering
• Made with simple, everyday ingredients
• Sweet lemon glaze takes it over the top

Ingredient Notes

See printable recipe card below for exact measurements and directions.

• Lemon juice & zest: Use fresh for the brightest, most vibrant lemon flavor.
• Poppy seeds: Add a light crunch and classic texture to the bread.
• Almond extract: Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a subtle depth.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a soft, tender crumb.

Lemon Glaze

This simple lemon glaze soaks into the warm bread, adding extra moisture and bright citrus flavor to every slice.

• Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the glaze its bold, citrusy flavor.
• Sugar: Balances the tartness and creates a sweet, glossy finish.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and rounds out the flavor.

Lemon Poppyseed Bread Using Cake Mix

Short on time? You can make a quick version using a lemon cake mix as the base. Simply prepare the mix according to package directions and stir in poppy seeds before baking, similar to my 5-Ingredient Lemon Cake.

How to Make Moist Lemon Poppyseed Bread

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan (or mini loaf pans). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Add the remaining ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 2. Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan(s) using a spatula. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 3. While the bread bakes, prepare the glaze by whisking the lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.

Step 4. Remove bread from the oven and poke holes over the top using a fork.

Step 5. Pour the glaze over the warm bread, allowing it to soak in.

Step 6. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Baking Tips

• Don't overmix the batter, this helps create a soft, tender crumb
• Use fresh lemon juice and add a little lemon zest if you want an extra pop of citrus
• Don't overbake; once a toothpick comes out clean, it's ready
• Let the bread cool before slicing so it stays moist

Storage & Make-Ahead

This bread stays soft and moist when stored properly.

• Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps up to 1 week
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months

Lemon Poppyseed Bread Recipe FAQs

More Lemon Recipes You’ll Love

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