Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

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This lemon poppy seed cake is amazing! It has two soft, fluffy layers with lemon flavor and poppy seeds mixed in. Each layer is topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. In short, every bite is absolutely delicious!

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Savor the delightful combination of citrusy brightness and nutty richness with our Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, a refreshing treat that's perfect for any occasion. Picture a moist and tender cake infused with the vibrant zest of fresh lemons and studded with crunchy poppy seeds, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast in every bite. Each slice is a burst of citrusy goodness, with the lemon flavor perfectly complementing the subtle nuttiness of the poppy seeds. Whether enjoyed as a light dessert after dinner or as a sweet indulgence with a cup of tea or coffee, our Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is sure to brighten your day and leave you craving more.

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

I adore lemon-flavored treats. There’s something about the tanginess that just works perfectly with sweetness in desserts.
And when you add those tiny, slightly crunchy poppy seeds for a bit of texture and flavor contrast, then layer it all with rich cream cheese frosting, you know you’ve got a winner.
This cake is bound to impress any crowd. Each bite is soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet lemony goodness!

Why you will love this recipe:

  • Bright and Zesty Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice gives this cake a vibrant, citrusy flavor that is both refreshing and uplifting. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite, making it perfect for brightening up any day or occasion.
  • Delicate Texture with Crunchy Poppy Seeds: The cake’s tender crumb is complemented by the slight crunch of poppy seeds scattered throughout. This contrast in textures adds depth and interest to each slice, creating a delightful eating experience.
  • Versatile Dessert: Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on its own as a simple treat, or dressed up with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a dollop of whipped cream for a more decadent dessert. It’s equally suitable for casual gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a light and refreshing conclusion to a meal.

SERVING

  • Fresh Berry Compote: Serve slices of Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with a dollop of freshly made berry compote on top. The vibrant flavors of mixed berries complement the citrusy notes of the cake perfectly.
  • Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a zesty lemon glaze over slices of the Lemon Poppy Seed Cake for an extra burst of citrus flavor. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that enhances the overall taste of the cake.
  • Whipped Cream and Mint: Accompany slices of Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprig of mint for a refreshing and indulgent treat. The creamy texture of the whipped cream balances the cake’s crumbly texture, while the hint of mint adds a cool, herbal note.

Questions:

  • Can I skip the lemon extract if I don’t have any? I wouldn’t suggest it. The lemon extract is crucial for giving this cake its strong lemon flavor.
  • What about using a buttermilk substitute? I haven’t tried it myself, so I can’t guarantee the results. However, you could try using a mix of whole milk and lemon juice in place of buttermilk in a pinch

Tips for making the best Lemon Poppy Seed Cake:

  • Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients in grams for the most accurate results. If you don’t have one, fluff the flour in its bag, then scoop it into a measuring cup and level off the top with a knife.
  • Halfway through cooling the baked lemon cakes, put them in an airtight container to keep them moist.
  • Make sure the cake layers cool completely before adding the homemade cream cheese frosting. If they’re still warm, the frosting will melt!

Love cakes? Be sure to check out these other delicious cake recipes!

Strawberry Shortcake Cake

German Chocolate Cake

Lemon Blueberry Cake

Lemon Ricotta Cake

 

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