Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the unique flavor and crunch of poppy seeds. This poppy seed bread recipe brings together the delicate sweetness of vanilla and almond with a mild, nutty crunch. It's a simple dessert that's perfect for any occasion or just a warm companion to your morning coffee.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, the poppy seeds might require a trip to the grocery store. Poppy seeds are usually found in the spice aisle. They are tiny, kidney-shaped seeds that have a delightful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
Key Ingredients for the Delicious Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
Flour: Provides structure to the bread.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all other ingredients.
Baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent, causing the bread to rise.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps with the crumb structure.
Eggs: Contributes to the structure, color, and flavor of the bread.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in browning.
Whole milk: Enhances the flavor and texture of the bread.
Vanilla extract: Gives the bread a rich and complex flavor.
Almond extract: Adds a sweet, nutty flavor.
Butter extract: Enhances the rich, buttery flavor.
Poppy seeds: Adds a unique flavor and a pleasing crunch to the bread.
One reader, Guthry Gavin says:
This poppy seed bread recipe is a game-changer! The bread turned out moist and flavorful, and the poppy seeds added a delightful crunch. The aroma while baking was heavenly. It's a definite hit with my family, and I can't wait to make it again!
Essential Techniques for Making Poppy Seed Bread
How to sift dry ingredients: Sifting the flour, salt, and baking powder together helps to aerate the dry ingredients and remove any lumps, resulting in a lighter and more evenly textured bread.
How to incorporate wet and dry ingredients: Gradually adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while whisking ensures that the batter is well combined without overmixing, which can lead to a tough texture in the bread.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If there is batter or crumbs sticking to the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes before checking again.
How To Make Poppy Seed Bread
Enjoy a sweet breakfast with this poppy seed bread that’s baked with vanilla, almond, and butter extract. This quick bread takes only 15 minutes to prep.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsflour
- ½tspsalt
- ¾tspbaking powder
- ⅔cupvegetable oil
- 2large eggs
- 1cupsugar
- ¾cupwhole milk
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1tspalmond extract
- 1tspbutter extract
- 1tbsppoppy seeds
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder together and set aside.
-
Whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and sugar until fully combined.
-
Add in the milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, butter extract, and poppy seeds and whisk until well combined.
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Whisk in the dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
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Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and pour the batter into the pan.
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Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Calories: 262.45kcal
- Fat: 14.51g
- Saturated Fat: 1.62g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.53g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.60g
- Carbohydrates: 29.79g
- Fiber: 0.57g
- Sugar: 17.63g
- Protein: 3.28g
- Cholesterol: 33.37mg
- Sodium: 138.79mg
- Calcium: 56.40mg
- Potassium: 55.64mg
- Iron: 0.45mg
- Vitamin A: 23.04µg
- Vitamin C: 0.01mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Poppy Seed Bread
When incorporating the poppy seeds into the batter, it's beneficial to soak them in the milk for about 15 minutes before adding them to the mixture. This allows the seeds to absorb some of the liquid, which can enhance their nutty flavor and make them more noticeable in the final product.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Organize your workspace: Clear your countertop and organize your ingredients and tools to make the cooking process more efficient.
Use pre-measured ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting to save time during the preparation.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes and save time on adjustments.
Clean as you go: Wash utensils and clean spills while cooking to minimize the cleanup time afterward.
Multi-task: When possible, work on multiple components of the recipe simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or mixers to speed up the preparation process.
Set a timer: Use timers to keep track of cooking and baking times, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Cook in batches: If making multiple loaves, consider doubling the recipe and baking them simultaneously to save time.
Preheat oven in advance: Preheat the oven while preparing the batter to save time during the baking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the bread while still providing the necessary structure for baking.
vegetable oil - Substitute with melted butter: Butter can add a rich and creamy flavor to the bread, enhancing its overall taste and texture.
whole milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can contribute to a tender crumb and a slightly tangy flavor, adding depth to the bread's taste.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can bring a natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, as well as a hint of floral flavor.
poppy seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can provide a similar crunchy texture and a boost of nutrition, including omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
How to Beautifully Present Poppy Seed Bread
Elevate the plating: When presenting the poppy seed bread, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the simplicity and beauty of the bread.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Pair the poppy seed bread with a complementary element, such as a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of velvety vanilla bean ice cream, to add a luxurious and indulgent touch to the dish.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a pop of color and delicate floral notes to the plate by garnishing with edible flowers, such as pansies or violets. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle hint of floral fragrance to the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to draw attention to the poppy seed bread. Allow the bread to be the focal point while using the empty space to create a sense of balance and sophistication.
Incorporate a drizzle or sauce: Elevate the presentation by incorporating a drizzle of honey or a light citrus glaze. The addition of a carefully executed sauce not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds an artistic element to the plating.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the poppy seed bread and enhances its overall presentation. Opt for a neutral-toned or subtly patterned plate to allow the bread to stand out.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a touch of opulence, consider delicately placing a few edible gold leaf accents on the plate. The shimmering gold adds a luxurious and sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Create a harmonious composition: Pay attention to the arrangement of elements on the plate, ensuring that each component harmonizes with the others to create a visually stunning and cohesive presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Poppy Seed Bread
- Oven: To bake the poppy seed bread.
- Sifter: To sift the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Whisk: To mix the vegetable oil, eggs, and sugar, and to combine the wet ingredients.
- Loaf pan: To bake the poppy seed bread in a loaf shape.
- Toothpick: To check if the bread is fully baked by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
Storing and Freezing Poppy Seed Bread: A Guide
Allow the poppy seed bread to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the bread soggy.
To store the bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the wrapped bread for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
To freeze the poppy seed bread:
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen poppy seed bread:
- Remove the bread from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Alternatively, you can thaw the bread at room temperature for a few hours.
- If desired, you can warm the thawed bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh it before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Poppy Seed Bread
The best way to reheat leftover poppy seed bread is to wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the bread's moisture and keeps it from drying out.
Another option is to slice the poppy seed bread and toast the individual slices in a toaster or toaster oven until they're warm and slightly crispy on the edges. This is perfect if you prefer a slightly crunchy texture.
For a quick and easy method, place a slice of the poppy seed bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the bread tough and rubbery.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover poppy seed bread, try spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on top before reheating it in the oven or toaster. This will give the bread a rich and creamy taste.
For a delicious breakfast treat, slice the leftover poppy seed bread and use it to make French toast. Dip the slices in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, then cook them in a skillet with butter until they're golden brown on both sides.
Interesting Fact About Poppy Seed Bread
Poppy seed bread is a traditional Eastern European pastry that is often served during the holidays. It is believed that poppy seeds bring good luck and prosperity, which is why this bread is commonly enjoyed during festive occasions.
Is Making Poppy Seed Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This poppy seed bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a delicious and satisfying loaf. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10, making it an affordable treat. The versatility of this bread also adds to its value, as it can be enjoyed for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, flavor, and budget-friendly nature.
Is Poppy Seed Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
The poppy seed bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content (1 cup)
- Refined flour (1½ cups)
- Significant amount of vegetable oil (⅔ cup)
- Low in fiber and nutrients
These ingredients contribute to a high calorie count and may lead to blood sugar spikes. The refined flour and lack of whole grains also reduce the bread's nutritional value.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the sugar content by 25-50% to lower the calorie count and minimize blood sugar spikes
- Substitute a portion of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce fat content and add moisture
- Include additional healthy ingredients such as grated zucchini, carrots, or nuts to boost fiber and nutrient content
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates for a more natural sweetness
By incorporating these changes, you can create a more balanced and nutritious poppy seed bread while still maintaining its delightful flavor and texture. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier modifications, it's essential to enjoy this treat as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Poppy Seed Bread
The poppy seed bread recipe you provided seems delightful. The combination of vanilla, almond, and butter extracts adds a depth of flavor, while the poppy seeds provide a delightful crunch. The use of whole milk promises a moist and tender crumb, and the baking time and temperature appear appropriate. However, I would suggest considering the option of adding a glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top to enhance the presentation and add a touch of sweetness. Overall, this recipe has great potential to yield a delicious and aromatic poppy seed bread.
Enhance Your Poppy Seed Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Poppy Seed Bread Recipe
Ideal Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Poppy Seed Bread
Why trust this Poppy Seed Bread Recipe:
This recipe is a tried and tested classic, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a delicious poppy seed bread. The combination of vanilla extract, almond extract, and butter extract adds depth and richness to the flavor profile. With the perfect balance of poppy seeds and a moist, tender crumb, this recipe is a surefire hit for any occasion. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe to deliver a delightful baking experience every time.
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