Lemon poppy seed loaf cake

Ingredients

Loaf Cake

120 grams (4.23 ounces) butter at room temperature
250 grams (8.82 ounces) sugar
3 large eggs
220 grams (7.76 ounces) cottage cheese (paste)
220 grams (7.76 ounces) flour
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest from 2 lemons
2 tablespoons poppy seeds

The Glaze

1 tablespoon lemon juice
90 grams (3.17 ounces) powdered sugar

Equipment

Mixing Bowl:
Use a large mixing bowl to whip up your butter, sugar, and eggs seamlessly. A ceramic or stainless steel bowl helps in even mixing.
Electric Mixer:
An electric mixer speeds up the process and ensures a smooth batter. A handheld or stand mixer works great.
Sifter:
A sifter is crucial for ensuring your flour and baking powder are lump-free. This step guarantees a lighter, airy cake.
Loaf Pan:
Opt for a 20-22cm round or 10x25cm rectangular pan. Silicone molds are non-stick and easy to clean.
Oven:
Preheat your oven to 338°F (170°C). Using an oven thermometer ensures accurate baking temperature.

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 338°F (170°C).

Step 2

Step 2: In a large bowl, whip the butter with the sugar. If you're using the lemon zest, rub the sugar and zest together with your fingers to enhance the flavor.

Step 3

Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, whipping after each addition until fully incorporated.

Step 4

Step 4: Add the cottage cheese and vanilla extract. Whip until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Ensure the cottage cheese is at room temperature for better mixing.

Step 5

Step 5: Sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently to combine. Add the poppy seeds and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 6

Step 6: Pour the batter into a greased mold. You can use a 20-22cm (7.87-8.66 inch) round mold or a 10×25cm (3.94×9.84 inch) rectangular mold.

Step 7

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check the cake around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Step 8

Step 8: For the glaze, mix the lemon juice with the powdered sugar until smooth. Apply the glaze to the cooled cake. Let the glaze set before slicing the cake for a cleaner presentation.

Servings

When serving this lemon poppy seed loaf cake, you have endless possibilities to make each slice feel like a special experience! 🍋 **For a relaxed afternoon tea**, pair a slice with a cup of earl grey or herbal tea. The citrus notes in the tea beautifully complement the cake's zestiness. **Hosting a brunch?**✨ Decorate slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 🍦 **Thinking of gifting this delightful treat?** Wrap a cooled loaf in parchment paper, tie with a festive ribbon, and deliver smiles! 🎁 **Elevate your plating by garnishing** with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers. 🌸 For a citrusy twist, serve with a side of lemon curd or fresh berries. 🍓 Every slice is meant to be savored, so don't be shy to dress up your plate and enjoy every lemony bite!

Variations

Want to enjoy this delicious cake but need it gluten-free or vegan? No problem! 🌿✨

Gluten-Free Variation: Replace the wheat flour with **220g of gluten-free flour blend**. Ensure your blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for optimal texture. Vegan Variation: Substitute the butter with **120g of dairy-free butter** or coconut oil, and use **flaxseed eggs** (3 tablespoons flax meal mixed with 9 tablespoons water). Replace the cottage cheese with **220g of vegan cream cheese**. 🌱 Don't forget, the baking powder and poppy seeds stay the same! Enjoy these tweaks to cater to all your dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

Faq

Why does my loaf cake crack on top?
This is usually due to the oven being too hot or overmixing the batter. Stick to the recommended temperature and gently fold ingredients for the best results.
How do I ensure my loaf cake is moist?
Make sure not to overbake. Check for doneness around 50 minutes with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Absolutely! You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
What's the best way to store leftover cake?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Yes! Fruits like blueberries or raspberries can be folded gently into the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
Is it necessary to sift the flour?
Sifting helps mix the flour with the leavening agents and removes possible lumps, resulting in a lighter texture. So, it's highly recommended!