If you’re looking for a cake that is light, refreshing, and bursting with the tangy flavor of lemon, this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is exactly what you need. Perfect for a cozy tea-time treat or as a showstopper dessert, this cake combines the citrusy zest of lemon with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. The result? A moist, fluffy cake that’s both simple to make and a joy to eat.
I stumbled upon this recipe and was inspired to bring it to life with a few small touches. The balance of bright lemon notes and buttery richness will make this cake a favorite in no time!
What Makes Lemon Poppy Seed Cake So Special?
This cake is a celebration of simple ingredients creating something extraordinary. Lemon and poppy seeds are a classic pairing, offering a unique combination of flavor and texture. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang and keeps the cake irresistibly moist, while the fresh lemon zest and juice give it a vibrant, sunshiny flavor.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1¾ cups
- Poppy seeds: 1 tbsp
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: ¼ tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Unsalted butter, softened: ½ cup
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Lemon zest: From 1 lemon
- Buttermilk: ¾ cup
- Lemon juice, fresh: ¼ cup
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. - Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy and pale. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. - Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk and fresh lemon juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool and Finish:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a tangy lemon glaze for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
- For Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a splash of lemon extract to the batter.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor.
- Decorate with Style: Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, or garnish with candied lemon slices for a stunning presentation.
This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a gateway to a delightful baking experience. The bright flavors and beautiful texture make it a versatile dessert suitable for any occasion. Whether paired with a hot cup of tea or served as a light dessert, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Try this recipe, and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to share with friends who might enjoy this zesty treat.
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