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Lemon Poppy Seed Cake (Moist & Zesty) Recipe


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4 from 57 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • 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. This cake is perfect for dessert or an afternoon tea treat, featuring a tender crumb enhanced by fresh lemon juice and zest.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

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

Wet Ingredients

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


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a cake pan to prepare it for baking.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which will help to incorporate air for a tender cake.
  3. Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition to ensure even incorporation.
  4. Add lemon flavor: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest to infuse the batter with a fresh, zesty citrus flavor.
  5. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds, ensuring they are well distributed.
  6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, mixing gently after each addition to avoid overmixing and keep the cake tender.
  7. Pour batter into pan: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes; then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Add a lemon glaze on top of the cooled cake for extra citrus flavor and sweetness.
  • Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a soft, tender crumb in your cake.
  • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American