Perfectly Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Easy and Delicious!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 large eggs

200 grams (1 cup) sugar

200 grams (do not run across page) sour cream (10-15%)

120 ml (0.5 cup) vegetable oil

260 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour

1 large lemon

10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder

30 grams (0.5 cup) poppy seeds

Powdered sugar for dusting

We recommend:

For granulated sugar:

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Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1

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(12,536) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1 $5.27 View details Prime

Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack)

4.8

(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime

4.6

(205) C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags $56.99 $49.98 View details

For sour cream:

Prime

Judee’s Bulk Cream of Tartar 40 lb (5lb Pack of 8) - All Natural, Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free & Nut-Free - Use for Baking as a Stabilizer, Cleaning and Crafting - Made in USA

4.7

(850) Judee’s Bulk Cream of Tartar 40 lb (5lb Pack of 8) - All Natural, Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free & Nut-Free - Use for Baking as a Stabilizer, Cleaning and Crafting - Made in USA $319.99 View details Prime

4.5

(8,164) Duncan Hines Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting, 14 oz $1.92 View details Prime

4.3

(5,535) Hoosier Hill Farm Sour Cream Powder, 2LB (Pack of 1) $29.99 View details

For vegetable oil:

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(17,570) Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Canola Oil, 128 fl oz (Pack of 1) $10.99 $16.74 View details Prime

4.6

(33) Goya Foods Vegetable Oil, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 24) $68.86 View details Prime

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(26,340) Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Vegetable Soybean Oil, 128 fl oz (Pack of 1) $9.99 $18.21 View details

For all-purpose flour:

Prime

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(9,312) Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4) $23.96 View details Prime

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(15,802) Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2) $16.99 View details Prime best seller

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(20,691) King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary $8.62 View details

For large lemon:

Prime

Dewey's Bakery Lemon Moravian Style Cookie Thins | Baked in Small Batches | Real, Simple Ingredients | Time-Honored Southern Bakery Recipe | Low Calorie Cookie Thins | 28oz | Pack of 2

Lorann Oils Lemon Bakery Emulsion: Tangy Lemon Essence, Perfect for Amplifying Citrus Tones in Cakes, Cookies & Desserts, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Lemon Extract Alternative Essential for Your Kitchen

4.4

(11,950) Lorann Oils Lemon Bakery Emulsion: Tangy Lemon Essence, Perfect for Amplifying Citrus Tones in Cakes, Cookies & Desserts, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Lemon Extract Alternative Essential for Your Kitchen $7.89 View details Prime

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(11) Dewey's Bakery Meyer Lemon, Key Lime and Vanilla Moravian Cookie Thin Variety Pack, 9 oz (Pack of 3) $24.99 View details

For baking powder:

Prime

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(10,144) Clabber Girl Double Acting Baking Powder, 8.1 Ounce $2.63 View details Prime

4.7

(10,727) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Baking Soda, 16 Ounce $1.79 View details Prime best seller

4.8

(8,361) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Baking Powder Aluminum Free, 10 Ounce $3.29 View details

For poppy seeds:

Prime

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(105) Sticky Fingers Scones Lemon Poppyseed, 15-ounces (Pack of3) $25.50 View details Prime best seller

4.8

(4,575) Amazon Brand - Happy Belly Poppy Seeds, 3.5 ounce (Pack of 1) $3.56 View details Prime

4.2

(1,555) Outsidepride 1 lb. Annual Eschscholzia Orange California Poppy Native Garden Wild Flower Seed $29.99 View details

For powdered sugar:

Prime

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(37) Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Powdered Sugar, Naturally Flavored Real Sugar, Non GMO & Gluten Free, 50 Pound (Pack of 1) $106.95 View details Prime best seller

Lakanto Powdered Monk Fruit Sweetener with Erythritol - Powdered Sugar Substitute, Zero Calorie, Keto Diet Friendly, Zero Net Carbs, Baking, Extract, Sugar Replacement (Powdered - 1 lb)

4.6

(118,724) Lakanto Powdered Monk Fruit Sweetener with Erythritol - Powdered Sugar Substitute, Zero Calorie, Keto Diet Friendly, Zero Net Carbs, Baking, Extract, Sugar Replacement (Powdered - 1 lb) $11.90 View details Prime

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(39,317) Swerve Sweetener Powder, Confectioners, 12 oz $6.98 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease a baking pan with vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

Making the Batter

Whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.

Add the sour cream and vegetable oil, mixing thoroughly.

Grate the zest of the lemon and squeeze out its juice. Add both the zest and juice to the mixture.

Combine the flour with the baking powder, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth batter.

Fold in the poppy seeds and mix gently.

Step 3

Baking and Finishing

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, remove from the pan and let it cool completely.

Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar.

Servings

When it comes to serving this Lemon & Poppy Seed Cake, the possibilities are endless and utterly delightful ✨.

For a Cozy Afternoon Tea: Serve a slice of this cake with your favorite tea. A light Earl Grey or a refreshing green tea pairs wonderfully with the lemony flavors.

Make it Fancy: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Add a few fresh berries for a pop of color and added taste.

Brunch Star: This cake can easily become the star of your next brunch. Serve it alongside a spread of fresh fruits, yogurt, and granola. Don't forget the mimosas! 🍹

Whether you’re enjoying a slice on your own or sharing it with loved ones, this cake brings a touch of sunshine to any table.

Equipment

Mixing Bowls

You'll need at least two mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls are ideal as they are easy to clean and don't retain odors.

We recommend:

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YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage

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REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)

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(8,743) REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful) $26.99 View details Prime

Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki)

4.6

(27,811) Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki) $32.28 $37.99 View details

Whisk

A good-quality whisk will help you combine the sugars and eggs thoroughly. Opt for a silicone whisk if you're using non-stick cookware to avoid scratches.

We recommend:

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Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black

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(9,797) Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black $11.89 $14.99 View details Prime

Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs…

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(8,757) Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs… $9.80 $14.99 View details

Grater

A fine grater is essential for zesting the lemon. Microplane graters are a popular choice among bakers.

We recommend:

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Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Grater for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

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KitchenAid Gourmet 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater for Fine, Medium and Coarse Grate, and Slicing, Detachable 3 Cup Storage Container and Measurment Markings, Dishwasher Safe, 10 inches tall, Black

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(12,169) KitchenAid Gourmet 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater for Fine, Medium and Coarse Grate, and Slicing, Detachable 3 Cup Storage Container and Measurment Markings, Dishwasher Safe, 10 inches tall, Black $18.99 $24.99 View details Prime

4.8

(9,980) Microplane Classic Zester Grater, Black $15.50 View details

Baking Pan

A 9x5 inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe. Don't forget to grease it or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

We recommend:

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(99) CURTA 6 Pack Aluminum Sheet Pan, NSF Listed Full Size 26 x 18 inch Commercial Bakery Cake Bun Pan, Baking Tray $99.99 View details Prime best seller

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(21,899) Wilton Non-Stick 6-Cavity Donut Baking Pans, 2-Count $17.98 $20.79 View details Prime best seller

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(27,069) Amazon Basics Rectangular Baking Bread Loaf Pan, 9.5 x 5 Inch, Set of 2, Gray $13.49 View details

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Accuracy is key in baking, so having a reliable set of measuring cups and spoons can make all the difference.

We recommend:

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Spring Chef Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Set of 14 with Leveler, Nesting Kitchen Metal Measuring Cups and Spoons Set for Dry and Liquid Ingredients, Perfect for Cooking & Baking

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Simply Gourmet Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 12, 304 Premium Stainless Steel, Stackable Cups Long Handle Spoons Fits Narrow Jars, Kitchen Gadgets for Liquid & Dry Ingredients Cooking Baking

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Variations

Looking to adapt this recipe for specific dietary needs? We've got you covered! 🌱

Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for the best results. Some good options include blends containing rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch.

Vegan: Swap out the eggs by using flaxseed meal. Mix 3 tablespoons of flaxseed meal with 9 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Instead of sour cream, use a plant-based yogurt or vegan sour cream. Your favorite vegetable oil works just fine in place of dairy-based fats.

With these modifications, everyone can enjoy a piece of this irresistible treat! 🎉

Faq

Q: Can I use any other oil instead of vegetable oil?
A: Absolutely! You can use canola oil, sunflower oil, or even melted coconut oil. Just make sure to use a mild-flavored oil to keep the lemon flavor shining through.
Q: My cake turned out dense, what did I do wrong?
A: Over-mixing the batter could be the culprit. To avoid this, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overworking the batter can develop gluten in the flour, making the cake dense.
Q: Can I add nuts to the batter?
A: Yes, you can! Chopped almonds or walnuts would add a nice texture. Just fold them in when you add the poppy seeds.
Q: How do I know if my cake is fully baked?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, give it more time.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes, you can! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What's the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge, where it will keep for up to a week.