Lemon Poppy Seed Ricotta Loaf (Printable Version)

Moist loaf marries lemon, poppy seeds, and ricotta for delightful citrus flavor and tender crumb.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 3 tablespoons poppy seeds

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - Zest from 2 lemons
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
10 - 1/3 cup vegetable oil
11 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds until evenly combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, blend granulated sugar and lemon zest, rubbing together with fingertips to release essential oils.
04 - Whisk in eggs, ricotta cheese, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until mixture is thoroughly incorporated.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined with no dry streaks remaining.
06 - Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
07 - Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
08 - Allow loaf to cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright citrus flavor wakes up your taste buds
  • Ricotta gives the loaf bakery-style tenderness
  • No stand mixer required just bowls and a whisk
  • Keeps its lovely moisture for days
02 -
  • Gives you up to four days of bakery-level freshness
  • Pairs well with tea coffee or a swipe of fruit preserves
  • A good source of protein and calcium from the ricotta
  • Poppy seeds provide a subtle crunch that kids love My favorite part is the aroma that fills my kitchen when the loaf bakes It always reminds me of cozy weekends at home with my family and fresh lemon zest on my hands
03 -
  • Use a light hand when folding the batter to keep the loaf tender
  • Always zest your lemons before juicing for the best flavor payout
  • Test for doneness early using a toothpick as ovens can vary

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