Almond Poppy Seed Bread

Almond Poppy Seed Bread is a delightful quick bread that boasts a moist, tender crumb and a subtle nutty flavor. The poppy seeds add a charming crunch, while the almond extract infuses each slice with a warm, fragrant aroma. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dessert, this bread is easy to make and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether served plain or drizzled with a sweet glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for topping)

Optional Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp almond extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the butter mixture in three additions, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the milk just until the batter is smooth and well combined.
6. Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread for a sweet finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your Almond Poppy Seed Bread plain or with a pat of butter. This bread keeps well for several days when stored in an airtight container.