This Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is the perfect combination of citrusy brightness, nutty crunch, and moist texture. It’s a delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a lightly sweet, fluffy bread that works for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist & Fluffy – Thanks to zucchini and Greek yogurt.
- Bright & Citrusy – Lemon zest and juice bring fresh flavor.
- Nutty & Crunchy – Poppy seeds add a subtle crunch.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and no-fuss prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Zucchini (1 cup, grated & squeezed dry) – Keeps the bread moist.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure.
- Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Helps it rise.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the flavors.
- Poppy Seeds (2 tbsp) – Adds crunch and a nutty taste.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Just the right amount of sweetness.
- Olive Oil (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist.
- Greek Yogurt (¼ cup) – Adds richness and tang.
- Lemon Zest (1 tbsp) & Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – The key to that bright citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grater for zucchini & lemon zest
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper
How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice).
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Spread with butter or cream cheese for extra richness.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Bread:
- Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep it light.
- Drain the Zucchini Well – Excess moisture can make it too dense.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – For the best citrus flavor.
Storing & Freezing:
- Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
Can I make muffins instead? Absolutely! Bake in muffin tins for 18–22 minutes.
Do I have to peel the zucchini? No! The peel is soft and blends into the bread.
Conclusion
This Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is a refreshing, moist, and flavorful twist on classic zucchini bread. It’s perfect for any time of day—light, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 180mg

Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
This Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread is the perfect combination of citrusy brightness, nutty crunch, and moist texture. It’s a delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a lightly sweet, fluffy bread that works for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Hungry for more? Subscribe now and have this recipe sent directly to your inbox—along with exclusive foodie updates!
Ingredients
- Zucchini (1 cup, grated & squeezed dry) – Keeps the bread moist.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure.
- Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Helps it rise.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances the flavors.
- Poppy Seeds (2 tbsp) – Adds crunch and a nutty taste.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds everything together.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Just the right amount of sweetness.
- Olive Oil (½ cup) – Keeps the bread moist.
- Greek Yogurt (¼ cup) – Adds richness and tang.
- Lemon Zest (1 tbsp) & Lemon Juice (¼ cup) – The key to that bright citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep it light.
- Drain the Zucchini Well – Excess moisture can make it too dense.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – For the best citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American