Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread wafting through the house. I remember the first time I tried this delightful treat; it was at a spring gathering, and the bright citrus notes instantly captivated me. Each bite was a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness, thanks to the lemon glaze that cascaded over the soft, moist bread. This recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warmer months when lemons are in season. The combination of the poppy seeds adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that perfectly complements the citrus, making it a joy to share with friends and family.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
20 mins
40 mins
Medium
230 kcal
3g g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
10g g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl
Why This Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Is a Winner
Perfect for Any Occasion
What I love most about Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is its versatility. It’s great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert. The refreshing lemon flavor makes it ideal for spring and summer gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this bread adds a special touch to any moment.
Easy to Make
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The white cake mix serves as the base, allowing you to create a bakery-worthy bread without the fuss of measuring out flour and sugar. It’s a real time-saver, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.
Light and Fluffy Texture
When it comes to texture, the Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread does not disappoint. The combination of instant lemon pudding mix with the cake mix ensures a moist and fluffy crumb that is hard to resist. Each slice is light, making it easy to enjoy just one more piece, perhaps slathered with a bit of butter or cream cheese.
Bright and Inviting Presentation
The vibrant color of the bread, enhanced by the poppy seeds, makes it a stunning centerpiece on any table. A drizzle of glaze not only adds a touch of sweetness but also gives the bread a beautiful shine, inviting everyone to grab a slice. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate!
Great for Gifting
Finally, this recipe makes for a charming gift. Wrapping a loaf in cellophane and tying it with a ribbon shows your thoughtfulness and love. Friends and family will appreciate the homemade touch, and it’s a delightful way to share a piece of your kitchen with them.
Ingredients to Make Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

When it comes to baking the perfect Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread, every ingredient plays a vital role. The key players in this recipe work harmoniously to create a delightful flavor and texture that you’ll love. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that bring this bread to life.
- 1 package (118 1/4 oz) of white cake mix – This serves as the foundation, providing the sweetness and fluffiness that we crave in a quick bread.
- 1 package (13.4 oz) of instant lemon pudding mix – This adds extra moisture and a rich lemon flavor, elevating the bread to a new level of deliciousness.
- 1 cup of warm water – This helps to activate the cake mix, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- 4 eggs – These are crucial for binding the ingredients together and adding richness to the bread.
- 1/2 cup of canola oil – This keeps the bread moist and tender, making each bite deliciously soft.
- 4 teaspoons of poppy seeds – They provide a delightful crunch and a unique flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 1 cup of powdered sugar – This sweetens the glaze that will top the bread, giving it that delightful finishing touch.
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice – This enhances the lemon flavor in the glaze, making it bright and zesty.
- 2 teaspoons of milk – This helps to achieve the perfect consistency for the glaze, smooth and pourable.
Step by Step Guide for Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Making Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a joyful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious loaf, perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Next, grease two 9-inch by 5-inch by 3-inch loaf pans. This will prevent the bread from sticking and ensures that it comes out perfectly shaped.
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, warm water, eggs, and canola oil. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on low speed for about 30 seconds. This initial mixing helps to combine the ingredients without incorporating too much air.
After that, increase the speed to medium and beat for approximately 2 minutes. The batter should become light and fluffy, signaling that it’s ready for the next step.
Gently stir in the poppy seeds. This adds texture and a delightful crunch to the bread.
Now, evenly divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans. Be careful to distribute it evenly to ensure even baking.
Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread; it should have a golden-brown color when it’s done.
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove.
After cooling slightly, turn the loaves out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for ensuring that the bottom doesn’t become soggy.
In the meantime, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk. Stir until completely combined, creating a smooth and pourable glaze.
Finally, pour the glaze over the cooled loaves, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. This gives the bread a beautiful, sweet finish. Your Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is now ready to be enjoyed!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking the bread a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Let it cool: Allow the bread to cool completely before applying the glaze for a beautiful finish.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add zest from other citrus fruits for a unique twist.
Tips and Variations

Enhancing your experience with Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips and variations to consider:
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Flavor Variations: Add some lemon zest to the batter for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside fresh berries for a delightful treat.
- Pairing: This bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of teas, making it a perfect afternoon snack.
What to Pair With Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Finding the right pairings for your delicious Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread enhances the experience even more. Here are some ideas:
- Tea: Enjoy a slice with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for a soothing afternoon treat.
- Fresh Fruits: Fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, complement the citrus flavor perfectly.
- Yogurt: Pair a slice with a side of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.
- Salads: Serve alongside a light salad for a refreshing lunch option.
- Brunch Spread: Include this bread in a brunch spread with other light pastries and fruits.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness with a refreshing zing from the lemon. It’s easy to make and adds a touch of sunshine to your table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you! Whether for a casual get-together or a cozy afternoon at home, this bread is sure to impress everyone who tries it.

Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
- Next, grease two 9-inch by 5-inch by 3-inch loaf pans. This will prevent the bread from sticking and ensures that it comes out perfectly shaped.
- In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, warm water, eggs, and canola oil. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on low speed for about 30 seconds. This initial mixing helps to combine the ingredients without incorporating too much air.
- After that, increase the speed to medium and beat for approximately 2 minutes. The batter should become light and fluffy, signaling that it's ready for the next step.
- Gently stir in the poppy seeds. This adds texture and a delightful crunch to the bread.
- Now, evenly divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans. Be careful to distribute it evenly to ensure even baking.
- Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread; it should have a golden-brown color when it’s done.
- Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove.
- After cooling slightly, turn the loaves out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for ensuring that the bottom doesn’t become soggy.
- In the meantime, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk. Stir until completely combined, creating a smooth and pourable glaze.
- Finally, pour the glaze over the cooled loaves, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. This gives the bread a beautiful, sweet finish. Your Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bread is now ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Flavor Variations: Add some lemon zest to the batter for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside fresh berries for a delightful treat.
- Pairing: This bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of teas, making it a perfect afternoon snack.


