Poppy Seed Dessert Bread
A moist and flavorful bread with a delightful crunch of poppy seeds, perfect for breakfast or teatime. Its tender crumb and subtle nutty aroma make it a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with butter or jam, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, aromatic baked goods with a hint of elegance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, poppy seed, baking powder, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, vanilla, and almond extract; mix until well blended.
- Pour the batter into 2 greased loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes.
- Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before removing from pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute half of the oil with applesauce for a healthier option. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, consider adding lemon zest or using a mix of almond and vanilla extracts. Adjust the baking time if using smaller loaf pans, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful poppy seed bread pairs beautifully with coffee or tea for breakfast or a light snack. Consider serving it alongside Aunt Jenny'S Cherry Salad for a refreshing contrast. It can also be enjoyed with butter or cream cheese spread on top, enhancing its rich flavor. For a dessert option, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through, maintaining its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poppy Seed Dessert Bread contains roughly 1617 calories, with 27g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 144g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (78% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture. The rest of the ingredients will work well with this adjustment, but keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary slightly.
How can I make this bread sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the sugar by half a cup. Alternatively, try drizzling a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for extra sweetness and a glossy finish. This will also add a nice decorative touch.
Can I freeze the poppy seed bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).