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Lemon Poppy Seed Cake (Moist & Zesty) Recipe


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4.4 from 78 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A soft and moist lemon poppy seed cake bursting with bright citrus flavor and a delicate crunch from poppy seeds. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon tea treat, this cake combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the subtle texture of poppy seeds to create a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert.


Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup milk

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air and create a tender crumb.
  3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated and the batter remains smooth.
  4. Mix Lemon Flavor: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor that will brighten the cake.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds evenly distributing the leavening and seeds throughout the dry mix.
  6. Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. This technique keeps the batter smooth and helps prevent overmixing which can toughen the cake.
  7. Pour Batter: Pour the finished batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top for even baking.
  8. Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
  9. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Add a lemon glaze on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor and a shiny finish.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain the cake’s soft and tender texture.
  • Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American