Lemon Cake with Poppy Seeds

This delightful lemon cake with poppy seeds is a perfect blend of tangy citrus and nutty flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a refreshing taste, while the poppy seeds add a subtle crunch. This cake is moist and rich, yet light enough to enjoy as an afternoon snack or a delightful dessert. The glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice intensifies the citrus flavor and adds a glossy finish. It's easy to prepare and requires ingredients that are commonly found in most pantries. Perfectly suitable for vegans and those looking for a dairy-free dessert option, this recipe replaces traditional dairy products with unsweetened almond milk and rapeseed oil. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g self-raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
185 g sugar
2 tbsp poppy seeds
120 ml rapeseed oil
230 ml unsweetened almond milk
125 ml lemon juice (from 4 lemons)
Zest of 3 lemons
1 tsp vanilla essence

For the Glaze:

170 g powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation Time

70 minutes - including both preparation and cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a cake mold to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together. This helps to remove any lumps and aerates the mixture.
Add the sugar and poppy seeds to the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon until combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the rapeseed oil, unsweetened almond milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla essence. Whisk these wet ingredients together until well blended.
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together, making sure not to over-mix, as this can make the cake dense.
Transfer the batter into the greased cake mold, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The edges of the cake should turn a lovely golden brown.
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Let the cake cool in the mold for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a thick, smooth consistency.
Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon. Allow it to set for a few minutes.
For added decoration, grate some fresh lemon zest over the glaze and sprinkle a few poppy seeds on top.
Slice the cake and serve it alongside freshly brewed tea or coffee.
If you desire, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
This cake can also be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful cake any time of the year!
Always allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from becoming runny.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice in the glaze to your preferred thickness and taste.
Enjoy every bite of this vibrant lemon cake with family and friends!

Tips

Substitute almond milk with any other non-dairy milk if preferred.
For a richer flavor, consider using olive oil instead of rapeseed oil.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall taste of the cake.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.

Nutritions

(Per serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 4g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free self-raising flour.
Sugar-Free Version: Replace sugar with a suitable sugar substitute.
Nut-Free: Use oat milk instead of almond milk.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Fresh berries or a tangy lemon sorbet.
Garnish with: Slivers of toasted almonds or candied lemon slices.

Best Places

Magnolia Bakery - Known for its delightful desserts, this bakery offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a slice of cake. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
Betty’s Café Tea Rooms - A traditional setting with an exquisite selection of cakes and teas. Location: 6-8 St. Helen’s Square, York, UK.
Café Central - Enjoy a classic Viennese coffee house experience with delicious pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Café de Flore - A chic café offering a taste of Parisian life with delectable cakes. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
Dulcé Bakery and Café - Known for its innovative cake flavors and friendly service. Location: 500 King St W, Toronto, Canada.
Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers a luxurious selection of pastries in an elegant setting. Location: Via Montenapoleone, 9, Milan, Italy.
Café Sacher - Famous for their iconic Sacher Torte, a must-visit for cake enthusiasts. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.
The Ritz London - Enjoy afternoon tea with a slice of cake in an opulent setting. Location: 150 Piccadilly, London, UK.
The Grounds of Alexandria - Known for its vibrant atmosphere and artisanal treats. Location: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria, Australia.
Cafe Tortoni - Experience historic charm with delicious coffees and pastries. Location: Avenida de Mayo 825, Buenos Aires, Argentina.