My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread Recipe - Authentic Czech Republic Recipe

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes | Servings: This recipe makes 2 loaves of poppy seed bread.

Introduction

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down for generations. This sweet and moist bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delicious dessert. The combination of poppy seeds, vanilla, and almond extract creates a unique and flavorful treat that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

This recipe has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. My mom used to make this poppy seed bread for special occasions, holidays, or just as a sweet treat for us kids. The recipe has been tweaked and perfected over the years, resulting in a delicious and foolproof bread that is loved by all who try it.

Ingredients

3 cups flour
2.5 cups sugar
1.5 tsp baking powder
1.5 tsp salt
1.5 cups milk
1 cup oil, plus
2 tbsp oil
3 tbsp poppy seeds
3 eggs
1.5 tsp vanilla
1.5 tsp almond extract
Glaze
0.25 cup butter
0.5 cup orange juice
0.75 cup sugar
0.5 tsp vanilla
0.5 tsp almond extract

How to prepare

Blend the dry ingredients with milk and oil, then thoroughly beat in the eggs and add the flavorings.
Pour the mixture into 2 ungreased bread loaf pans.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Test the bread with a toothpick.
Meanwhile, melt the butter and add the juice, sugar, vanilla, and almond extract.
Bring the mixture to a boil and keep it warm.
Once the bread is done, run a knife around the edges of the pans and poke holes in a random pattern using a fork.
Drizzle the glaze over and inside the cake.
Allow the cake to cool thoroughly.
Wrap it in Saran Wrap.
Refrigerate or freeze the cake.
You can also make muffins or smaller loaves with the same batter.

Variations

Add lemon zest or lemon extract for a citrusy twist.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Substitute almond extract with orange or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly blend the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients to ensure a smooth and even batter.

- Be sure to test the bread with a toothpick before removing it from the oven to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Drizzling the warm glaze over the bread while it is still hot will allow it to soak in and create a deliciously moist texture.

- This bread can also be made into muffins or smaller loaves for individual servings.

Serving Suggestions

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread is delicious on its own, but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Cooking Techniques

Thoroughly blend the wet and dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.

- Use ungreased loaf pans to allow the bread to rise properly.

- Poke holes in the bread before drizzling with glaze to allow it to soak in.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable oil or melted butter in place of the oil called for in the recipe.

- If you don't have almond extract, you can use additional vanilla extract instead.

Make Ahead Tips

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of poppy seed bread on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This bread pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover poppy seed bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for a few seconds or warm in the oven at a low temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread contains approximately 320 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This bread is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and nuts (almond extract), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread is a delicious and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and fat content.

Summary

My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread is a delicious and nostalgic recipe that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and moist texture, flavorful glaze, and unique combination of ingredients, this bread is sure to become a family favorite in your home. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart. It all started many years ago when I was just a young girl, learning the ropes of cooking from my own mother in our cozy kitchen.

One day, as I watched my mother effortlessly mix together ingredients to create a delicious smelling loaf of bread, I couldn't help but be curious about the recipe she was using. My mother noticed my interest and a twinkle appeared in her eyes as she told me it was a secret family recipe for Poppy Seed Bread that had been passed down through generations.

Intrigued, I begged my mother to teach me how to make the bread so that I could carry on the tradition in our family. She smiled and agreed, happy to pass on her knowledge to me. We spent the afternoon together in the kitchen, mixing, kneading, and baking until we had a beautiful loaf of Poppy Seed Bread cooling on the counter.

As we sat down to enjoy a slice together, my mother told me the story behind the recipe. She explained that the recipe had originated from my grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother, and so on. Each generation had added their own touch to the recipe, creating a unique and beloved family tradition.

From that day on, I made it my mission to perfect the recipe for My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I had created a loaf of bread that tasted just like my mother's. I was overjoyed to have finally mastered the recipe and to be able to carry on the tradition in our family.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, each time passing on the story behind it and the memories that it holds for me. I have made the bread for holidays, special occasions, and just because, always bringing joy and comfort to those who taste it.

As I grow older, I realize the importance of preserving family traditions and recipes. They are not just about the food we eat, but the memories and stories that are woven into each bite. My mother's Poppy Seed Bread will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and connection that exists within our family.

So, the next time you bake a loaf of bread or cook a family recipe, take a moment to think about the stories and memories that are attached to it. They are what make the food we share with others truly special. And who knows, maybe one day you'll create a cherished memory of your own, just like I did with My Mom's Poppy Seed Bread.