Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is a citrus lover’s dream! Perfect for afternoon tea, summer gatherings, or any celebration, this cake features fresh lemon juice and zest that provide a vibrant, tangy flavor. The delightful crunch of poppy seeds enhances each bite, while the luscious cream cheese frosting adds a sweet and creamy touch—YUM!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake is straightforward with simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon and poppy seeds creates a refreshing taste that stands out.
• Versatile: Serve it at tea parties, potlucks, or as a dessert for family gatherings—it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Moist Texture: The use of yogurt and butter ensures a tender and moist cake that everyone will love.
• Beautiful Presentation: With its bright colors and creamy frosting, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients quickly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistent results in baking.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is a citrus lover’s dream! Fresh lemon juice and zest give it a vibrant, tangy flavor, while poppy seeds add a subtle crunch. The soft, tender cake layers are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and creaminess—YUM!

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plain flour in UK)
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2½ tsps baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ¼ cup unflavoured vegetable oil (I use canola oil)
• 1½ cup white granulated sugar
• 3 tbsps lemon zest (see note 1)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup milk (room temperature)
• ½ cup yogurt (unflavored and unsweetened. Low-fat Greek yogurt is okay, but regular type preferred.)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsps poppy seeds

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 cups powdered sugar (also known as icing/confectioners’ sugar. Use more for a thicker frosting – see note 6)
• 1½ cup cream cheese (cold. Use a firm/block type, not the spreadable type.)
• 1½ tsp vanilla essence/extract
• 1 tsp lemon juice (must be fresh)

How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Cornstarch,
3. Baking powder,
4. Salt.

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, using an electric mixer:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter and white granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vegetable oil gradually while mixing.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Yogurt

With the mixer on low speed:
1. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
2. Mix in the yogurt until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add:
1. Lemon zest,
2. Milk,
3. Fresh lemon juice.

Mix well until combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
2. Fold in poppy seeds using a rubber spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans:
1. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks.

Step 8: Make Frosting

In a separate bowl:
1. Beat together cold cream cheese and room temperature unsalted butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix.
3. Stir in vanilla essence/extract and fresh lemon juice to finish.

Step 9: Frost Cake

Once cakes are completely cooled:
1. Spread frosting between layers first.
2. Cover tops and sides with remaining frosting for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Add a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice on top of each slice for an extra sweet and tangy finish.

Paired with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the zesty flavors of the cake beautifully, making each bite even more indulgent.

Alongside Herbal Tea

• A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, pairs wonderfully with the cake’s bright citrus flavor.

Garnished with Lemon Zest

• For an added pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the frosting before serving.

Served in Individual Portions

• Cut the cake into small squares or rounds and serve on decorative plates for an elegant presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Creating the perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Cake involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for a moist and flavorful result every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and results in a lighter cake.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing your flour, which can lead to a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients to dry; overmixing can make your cake tough.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake about 5 minutes before the suggested baking time. It should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before applying frosting to prevent it from melting.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance its deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy side that still feels light.

3. Cucumber Sandwiches: These refreshing bites provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cake.

4. Spinach Salad: Tossed with walnuts, feta cheese, and vinaigrette dressing, this salad adds savory notes that pair well with citrus flavors.

5. Lemon Sorbet: A chilled lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the zesty taste of the cake.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance out the sweetness while adding richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk should be at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a denser texture.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can cause the cake to be tough. Combine your ingredients just until they are incorporated for a light and fluffy cake.

• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest is crucial for enhancing the flavor. Make sure to add fresh lemon zest for that vibrant citrus taste.

• Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accurate ingredient measurements to ensure consistency in your cake.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different. It’s essential to preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if needed to maintain accurate temperatures.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container: Store your Lemon Poppy Seed Cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Duration: It can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Consider wrapping slices: If you have individual slices, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

• Wrap well: Use plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Duration: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Poppy Seed Cake:

What makes this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake moist?

The combination of butter, yogurt, and fresh lemon juice helps keep the cake moist while providing a burst of flavor.

Can I use other flavors with this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake?

Yes! You can experiment by adding different zests like orange or lime, or even nuts for added texture.

How should I serve Lemon Poppy Seed Cake?

This cake is perfect as an afternoon tea treat or dessert. Pair it with tea or coffee for an enjoyable experience.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You can make a simple lemon glaze using powdered sugar and lemon juice for a lighter topping if desired.

Can I add fruits to my Lemon Poppy Seed Cake?

Absolutely! Fresh berries or sliced fruits can complement the flavors beautifully. Just sprinkle them on top before serving!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Its bright flavor profile makes it perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to summer gatherings. You can customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different frostings. Try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!