Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf – Easy and Delicious Recipe

Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is a delightful, flavorful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty freshness of lemon and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack. The beautiful color from the cranberries and the tangy lemon glaze create a showstopper that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-make loaf is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf

This Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The fresh cranberries lend a burst of flavor and vibrant color, while the poppy seeds add a delightful crunch. It’s a simple recipe that yields impressive results, making it an ideal choice for any gathering. The loaf is also incredibly versatile, with options to adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer a more subtle sweetness, this loaf can be easily tailored to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf:

• Fresh Cranberries: Adds tartness and a pop of color to the loaf.
• Flour: The base ingredient that provides structure to the loaf.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture, making the loaf tender.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the loaf and balances the tart cranberries.
• Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor.
• Poppyseeds: Adds a subtle crunch and a touch of texture.
• Baking Powder: Leavens the loaf, ensuring it rises perfectly.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• Whole Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a soft crumb.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions, here are a few ideas:

• Non-Dairy Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt for added moisture and tang.
• Cranberry Jam or Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use cranberry jam or dried cranberries for a different twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cranberries: Toss the fresh cranberries in 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking. Set them aside.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs and lemon zest, mixing until fully combined.
4. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, poppyseeds, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix on low speed until just combined.
5. Fold in the cranberries: Gently fold the floured cranberries into the batter until evenly distributed.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
7. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat.
8. Glaze the loaf: Once the loaf has cooled slightly, use a wooden skewer to pierce the top of the loaf several times. Brush the warm glaze evenly over the top of the loaf, allowing it to soak into the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• Check for doneness: To ensure the loaf is fully baked, use a skewer or toothpick to check for moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, your loaf is ready!
• Avoid overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
• Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
• Make ahead: This loaf can be baked ahead of time and stored for a few days. The flavors continue to meld and improve, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further with these pairing ideas:

• Top with whipped cream or frosting: For a sweeter treat, top the loaf with fresh whipped cream or a light lemon frosting.
• Serve with tea: Pair this loaf with a hot cup of green tea or chamomile for a relaxing afternoon snack.
• Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Muffins: Transform this recipe into individual muffins by dividing the batter into a muffin tin and adjusting the baking time to 20-25 minutes.

The Health Benefits of Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf

While Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is undoubtedly a treat, it also offers some health benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from free radicals. The poppy seeds provide a small but beneficial amount of fiber and essential minerals, and the lemon zest adds a burst of vitamin C. By enjoying this loaf in moderation, you can indulge in a tasty dessert that offers some nutritional value alongside its delightful flavors.

This Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is the perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a flavorful treat, this loaf is guaranteed to please. With its balance of sweet, tart, and tangy flavors, it’s a recipe that will be cherished by all who try it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf is a delightful combination of fresh, tangy cranberries, zesty lemon, and a satisfying crunch from the poppyseeds. Its light texture and vibrant flavors make it a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy afternoon snack, or simply craving something sweet, this loaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and customize, it offers a refreshing twist on the classic lemon poppyseed cake. Don’t forget the simple lemon glaze that adds the perfect amount of tartness and sweetness to each bite. So, gather your ingredients, bake this delightful loaf, and enjoy a slice of heaven!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Cranberry Orange Scones: These scones combine the bright, tangy flavor of cranberries with the refreshing citrusy zing of oranges, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, similar to the Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf.
• Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: A savory yet slightly sweet cheese ball made with creamy cheese, crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries. This appetizer brings together the festive flavors of cranberry and nuts, offering a fun twist on the same ingredients used in the loaf.
• Cranberry Honey Butter: This sweet and tangy cranberry honey butter is perfect for spreading on bread, muffins, or scones. It pairs beautifully with the flavors of the Cranberry Lemon Poppyseed Loaf for a complementary, fruity experience.

Print