Springtime Lemon Poppy Seed Cake Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your trusted source for culinary inspiration and detailed, foolproof recipes. Today, we’re diving into a delightful springtime treat that captures the essence of fresh strawberries in a moist, flavorful bread — the Strawberry Bread. Perfectly suited for brunch, teatime, or a cozy family gathering, this bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, creating a comforting aroma and a taste that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly unique. Crafted with care and attention to detail, this recipe ensures a tender crumb, balanced sweetness, and vibrant fruit flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade baked good, this Strawberry Bread recipe from Love With Recipes promises to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Time

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour

Needed Equipment

To achieve optimal results, the following equipment will be necessary:

• Oven: Standard kitchen oven capable of maintaining precise temperature (350°F / 175°C)
• Loaf Pans: Two or three 9×5-inch loaf pans, preferably non-stick or well-greased and floured
• Mixing Bowls: Large mixing bowls for beating eggs and combining ingredients
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: For beating eggs and mixing batter thoroughly
• Spatula: Silicone or rubber spatula for folding ingredients
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring tools for dry and liquid ingredients
• Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing strawberries
• Sifter: To sift dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt
• Cooling Rack: To cool the bread evenly after baking
• Toothpick or Cake Tester: To check doneness of the bread

Tags

• Quick Breads
• Strawberry
• Fruit Bread
• Spring Recipes
• Kid Friendly
• Brunch
• Sweet Breads
• Homemade Baking

Serving Size

This recipe yields two generous loaves, each sliced into approximately 8 to 10 pieces, making it perfect for sharing among family and friends or enjoying over several days. The standard serving size is about 1 slice per person, but feel free to customize based on appetite or occasion.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as easy to moderate. It requires basic baking skills such as folding, mixing, and baking in loaf pans but remains approachable for beginners with some experience in baking quick breads. The key is gentle handling of the strawberries to prevent excess moisture and overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for vegetarian diets. It can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting gluten-free flour blends and for nut allergies by omitting nuts. For dairy-free options, serve with plant-based butter or omit butter altogether.

Course

• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Snack
• Dessert

Cuisine

American, Spring-inspired Baking

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking quick breads evenly without over-browning. While the oven heats, prepare your loaf pans. Grease them thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every corner is coated to facilitate easy removal of the bread once baked. Follow up by dusting with flour or lining with parchment paper for extra assurance. If using parchment, cut strips to fit the bottom and sides of the pans, then lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

The freshness of strawberries greatly influences the final flavor. Select ripe, fragrant strawberries—deep red, firm, and sweet. Wash them under cold, running water to remove dirt, then hull by removing the leafy green crown and stem. Chop the strawberries into small, uniform pieces—roughly ½-inch chunks—that will distribute evenly throughout the batter. Place the chopped strawberries on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to absorb excess moisture. Excess moisture can cause the bread to be soggy or affect the rise, so it’s crucial to pat them dry thoroughly.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, crack open the eggs and beat them vigorously with a whisk or electric mixer until they become frothy and slightly pale. This process incorporates air into the eggs, contributing to a lighter, fluffier bread. Beating for approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute is sufficient. For best results, ensure eggs are at room temperature—this helps them blend more evenly into the batter, yielding a more uniform texture and better volume.

Step 4: Incorporate Sugar and Oil

Add the 2 cups of granulated sugar to the beaten eggs gradually, and mix until well combined. The sugar not only sweetens but also helps retain moisture, keeping the bread tender. Next, add approximately ¼ cup of a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil. Use a spatula or mixer to blend the oil into the egg-sugar mixture until smooth and homogenous. This step helps create a moist crumb and enhances overall flavor. The mixture should be glossy and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Strawberries and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the chopped strawberries into the wet mixture. To prevent the strawberries from releasing excessive juice and making the batter runny, fold carefully with a spatula, just until the strawberries are evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Sifting aerates the flour and ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, folding gently to combine. Do not overmix; stop as soon as the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a dense, tough bread instead of a tender crumb.

Step 6: Add Flavorings and Optional Nuts

Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile. If you’re including nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage. Nuts add crunch and richness, complementing the strawberries beautifully. Chopped walnuts or pecans are recommended, but feel free to experiment with other nuts or omit for allergies or preference.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, using a spatula to scrape out every bit of batter. Smooth the tops gently to ensure even baking. Place the pans on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each loaf comes out clean. During baking, the bread will rise and develop a fragrant aroma. The edges should be golden brown, and the tops firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and set them on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes to set the structure, then carefully transfer the bread to the wire rack to cool completely. Cooling ensures the bread maintains its shape and prevents sogginess. Slice the bread once cooled—thick slices are ideal for buttering and serving. Serve warm with a pat of real butter for an indulgent treat, or enjoy at room temperature. The bread pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.

Preparation Tips

• Fruit selection: Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for maximum flavor. Overripe berries can be too soft and release excess moisture, so select fruit with firm texture and vivid color.
• Moisture control: Pat strawberries dry thoroughly before folding into the batter to prevent sogginess.
• Uniformity: Chop strawberries into similar-sized pieces to promote even distribution and consistent baking.
• Batch sizing: Adjust loaf pan sizes based on your oven capacity, but keep the baking temperature consistent to ensure even cooking.
• Storage: Keep cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. To reheat, warm slices briefly in the microwave or oven.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Strawberry prep: For a more intense strawberry flavor, macerate the chopped berries with a teaspoon of sugar for 10-15 minutes before folding into the batter. This releases natural juices and enhances sweetness.
• Moisture management: Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter can improve moisture and add richness.
• Texture variation: Incorporate chopped nuts or even white chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
• Presentation: Garnish the top of the batter with additional strawberry slices before baking for a beautiful presentation.
• Enhancing flavor: A splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten the fruit flavor and add a subtle tang.

Add-ons and Variations

• Chocolate Strawberry Bread: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for quick breads.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil in place of traditional dairy ingredients.
• Spiced Version: Increase cinnamon and add nutmeg or ginger for a spiced winter variation.

Side Dishes

This strawberry bread pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Greek yogurt with honey
• Light cream cheese spread
• Herbed butter or vegan spreads
• Mint or basil garnish for extra freshness

Improvements

• Experiment with different berries such as blueberries or raspberries for varied flavor profiles.
• Use a flavored extract like almond or lemon instead of vanilla for a different aromatic note.
• Incorporate shredded coconut or dried fruit for additional texture and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar slightly if your strawberries are very ripe and sweet.

Save and Store

To maximize freshness and flavor:

• Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices individually for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven or microwave.
• Label frozen slices with date for optimal freshness management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but ensure they are thawed and thoroughly dried before folding into the batter. Frozen strawberries tend to be more watery, which can affect the texture of the bread.

Can I make this bread vegan?

Absolutely. Substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seed gel (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use plant-based milk, and vegan butter or coconut oil. Adjust baking times if needed.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, it’s ready. The crust should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I add lemon zest or lemon juice?

Yes, adding 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice can elevate the flavor, making it more vibrant and summery.

What if my bread turns out dense?

Ensure you do not overmix the batter, as gluten development can cause density. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh and that you’ve baked at the correct temperature.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Bread from Love With Recipes exemplifies the perfect balance of fruit flavor, moist crumb, and comforting aroma. Its versatility makes it suitable for breakfast, snack, or dessert, and its straightforward preparation ensures that bakers of all skill levels can achieve bakery-quality results. With fresh strawberries at their peak, this bread offers an irresistible taste of springtime in every bite. Whether served warm with butter or enjoyed on its own, it’s a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. Remember to experiment with variations and add your personal touch for a customized experience. Happy baking!

References

Adapted from classic quick bread techniques and inspired by seasonal fruit baking traditions. For further reading, see King Arthur Baking and Food Network.