Dive into the refreshing, tangy delight of this Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, a perfect blend of bright lemon flavors and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This cake brings a burst of citrusy sunshine to any table, enhanced by a lemon syrup soak that infuses each slice with extra moisture and flavor. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, or whenever you need a cheerful boost, this cake promises a delightful eating experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is loved for its moist crumb and vibrant flavor, making it a standout dessert. The combination of fresh lemon zest, juice, and a sweet-tangy lemon syrup soak ensures that the cake is not only flavorful but also irresistibly moist. The addition of poppy seeds adds a pleasant texture and a slight nuttiness that complements the lemon beautifully. It’s a simple yet sophisticated cake that’s sure to impress.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions. It’s a refreshing end to a summer barbecue, a delightful addition to a high tea menu, or a festive centerpiece for a birthday or celebration. It also makes for a lovely weekend treat or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors. Whether served at a casual gathering or as part of a special event, this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is always a welcome sight.
Decoration Tips:
- Glaze the top of the cake with a simple lemon icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a glossy finish.
- Garnish with thinly sliced lemon rounds or lemon zest curls for a decorative touch that hints at the flavors inside.
- Sprinkle a few extra poppy seeds over the glaze for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Decorate around the cake with fresh flowers or herbs like lavender or mint for a natural, rustic look.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 150g butter, room temperature
- Zest of 2 organic lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 25g poppy seeds
- 150g sugar
- 150g whole cream (fluid)
- 230g flour
- 4g baking powder
- A pinch of fleur de sel
For the Lemon Syrup:
- 40g sugar
- 40g lemon juice
- 40g water
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a cake tin.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and fleur de sel. Alternately add the flour mixture and cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Smooth the top and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Lemon Syrup:
- While the cake is baking, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.
- Soak the Cake:
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and while still warm, poke holes over the top with a skewer. Slowly pour the hot lemon syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for a while before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy this Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, a vibrant dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, ensuring a perfect treat for any occasion.
