Ingredients:
For the loaf:
.1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
.1 tablespoon poppy seeds
.1 teaspoon baking powder
.¼ teaspoon baking soda
.¼ teaspoon salt
.½ cup unsalted butter, softened
.1 cup granulated sugar
.2 large eggs
.Zest of 2 lemons
.1 teaspoon vanilla extract
.½ cup whole milk or buttermilk
.¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
For the lemon glaze:
.1 cup powdered sugar
.2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
.Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions:
1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2.Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3.Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat well. Mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
4.Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and lemon juice, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5.Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6.Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7.Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
8.Glaze the loaf: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze on top. Let the glaze set before slicing.
Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!
