Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Bright, zesty, and irresistibly moist, this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is a citrus lover’s dream! Perfect for afternoon tea or a summer gathering, its vibrant lemon flavor combined with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds makes it a standout treat. The luscious cream cheese frosting adds a sweet and creamy finish that complements the tangy cake beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a bright, tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the yogurt and butter, this cake remains incredibly moist and tender throughout.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and clear instructions, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
• Versatile Serving Options: This cake is perfect for various occasions—be it parties, afternoon teas, or casual get-togethers.
• Beautiful Presentation: The creamy frosting and poppy seeds create an attractive dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather all necessary tools beforehand. Having everything on hand not only saves time but also ensures you don’t miss any essential steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pans (9-inch round)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing for a light and fluffy cake batter.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture and flavor in your Lemon Poppy Seed Cake.
• Baking pans: Using the correct size ensures even baking, helping your cake rise perfectly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plain flour in UK)
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2½ tsps baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Final Touches

• 2 tbsps poppy seeds
• 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 cups 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). This step is essential to ensure your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pans

Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter and lightly flour them. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:
* All-purpose flour,
* Cornstarch,
* Baking powder,
* Salt.

Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter and white granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vegetable oil and mix until combined.

Step 5: Add Eggs & Flavors

1. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in lemon zest and fresh lemon juice.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture alternately with milk and yogurt. Start with dry ingredients:

1. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix.
2. Fold in poppy seeds gently.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.

1. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Frosting

In a large bowl:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
3. Stir in vanilla essence/extract and additional lemon juice until fluffy.

Step 9: Assemble Cake

Once cakes are completely cool:
1. Place one layer on your serving plate.
2. Spread frosting on top of it.
3. Add the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake generously.

Enjoy your delightful homemade Lemon Poppy Seed Cake!

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or celebrating a special event, serving suggestions can elevate the experience.

For Afternoon Tea

• Accompany with Tea: Pair the cake with a pot of freshly brewed herbal or black tea for a classic afternoon treat.
• Serve with Fresh Fruit: Add a side of seasonal berries or citrus slices to enhance the cake’s flavors.

For Birthdays

• Decorate with Candles: Make it festive by adding candles on top for birthdays. The vibrant lemon flavor will delight guests of all ages.
• Add Ice Cream: Serve slices alongside vanilla or lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast.

For Picnics

• Pack Individual Slices: Wrap slices in parchment paper for easy transport and serve them as a sweet snack outdoors.
• Include in Dessert Platters: Cut into small squares and add to a dessert platter along with other treats like cookies and brownies.

As a Light Dessert

• Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Drizzle Lemon Glaze: A light lemon glaze drizzled over the top can enhance the zesty flavor profile.

How to Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, follow these handy tips.

• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure your cake has the right texture and flavor.
• Boldly Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs, butter, and milk to room temperature makes for better mixing and fluffier cake.
• Boldly Zest Fresh Lemons: Using fresh lemon zest enhances the cake’s citrus flavor significantly compared to bottled alternatives.
• Boldly Mix Well but Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients until just incorporated; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Boldly Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake 5–10 minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid over-baking.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Complementing your Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with the right side dishes can enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances the tangy cake.
2. Bold Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy treat that pairs well with lemon flavors.
3. Bold Cucumber Sandwiches: Light cucumber sandwiches provide a cool contrast to the sweet cake, making them ideal for tea time.
4. Bold Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a fresh crunch that complements the moistness of the cake.
5. Bold Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the tangy citrus notes.
6. Bold Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea will tie in beautifully with your dessert theme, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a Lemon Poppy Seed Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and butter for a better texture. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and dense cake.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest is essential for adding fresh flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the taste of your cake significantly.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough cake due to gluten development.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can affect the cake’s rise and texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake. Start checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Poppy Seed Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Lemon Poppy Seed Cake.

Can I make Lemon Poppy Seed Cake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce for a vegan option.

How do I make my Lemon Poppy Seed Cake more moist?

Adding yogurt or sour cream helps retain moisture in your cake, making it extra tender.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but your cake may have a denser texture. Consider mixing half whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for best results.

What is the best way to zest lemons?

Use a microplane or fine grater to get fine lemon zest without including the bitter white pith.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is not only bright and delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding blueberries or using different citrus fruits like oranges. It’s perfect for any occasion—try it today!