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–+ servings
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake That's Perfect for Spring Celebrations

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is perfect for spring celebrations, featuring zesty layers, poppy seeds, and cream cheese frosting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1/4 cup poppy seeds Essential for classic taste.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder Ensure freshness for best results.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Don't omit, as it balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter Margarine can be used but butter is preferred.
  • 1 large lemon zest Use fresh zest for better flavor.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar Can reduce if using lemon syrup.
  • 3 large eggs Use room temperature for better incorporation.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract No direct alternative, but vanilla bean paste can be used.
  • 1 cup milk Can substitute with non-dairy milk.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Use freshly squeezed for best flavor.
For the Frosting
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Essential for desired frosting consistency.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Do not use low-fat versions.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt Adjust to taste.
For Decoration
  • edible flowers Optional but recommended.
  • lemon slices Optional but recommended.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • whisk
  • Cake Pans
  • oven
  • Mixer
  • parchment paper
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 6-inch cake rounds.
  2. Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cream the butter and lemon zest, then add the sugar until pale and fluffy.
  4. Incorporate eggs one at a time and then alternately add dry mixture and milk mixed with lemon juice.
  5. Divide batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
  6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then prepare lemon syrup by combining lemon juice and sugar.
  7. Make the frosting by beating butter and gradually adding powdered sugar and cream cheese.
  8. Assemble the cake layers with frosting and lemon syrup.
  9. Decorate with edible flowers and lemon slices, then chill before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Maximize lemon flavor by creaming lemon zest with butter. Ensure frosting is mixed thoroughly.

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