Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Loaf

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the almond milk, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
8. Glaze the Loaf: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Let it set before slicing.

Storage Methods

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.
• Serving: For the best texture, serve at room temperature. If refrigerated, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
2. Berry Addition: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
3. Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.

Benefits of Ingredients

• Lemons: High in vitamin C, lemons boost the immune system, improve skin health, and aid digestion.
• Poppy Seeds: These tiny seeds are rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, supporting bone health and digestion.
• Coconut Oil: Contains healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that provide a quick source of energy and may support metabolism.
• Almond Milk: Low in calories and high in vitamins D and E, almond milk is a nutritious plant-based milk alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps with digestion and has antimicrobial properties.

By incorporating these wholesome ingredients and following the detailed instructions, you can create a delicious Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Loaf that is sure to impress. This loaf is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious choice that aligns with a plant-based lifestyle. Enjoy the zesty and sweet flavors of this delightful dessert at any time of the day.