Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Bright, citrusy, and speckled with tiny poppy seeds, this Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is the perfect treat for spring or anytime you need a sunny slice of comfort. Made with real lemon juice and zest, this cake is fluffy yet moist, sweet but tangy, and topped with a light glaze that soaks into every bite. Whether served with afternoon tea or as a refreshing dessert, it’s bound to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly Moist – Thanks to yogurt and fresh lemon juice
Naturally Flavored – No artificial extracts, just real citrus
Perfect Crumb – Soft, light texture that stays fresh for days
Beautifully Balanced – Sweet, tangy, and just a hint of crunch
Easy to Make – No mixer required and simple ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 8–10)

For the Cake:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp poppy seeds
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:
¾ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of ½ lemon (optional)

Optional Add-Ins or Variations
1 tsp almond extract for depth
Chopped candied lemon peel
Drizzle of white chocolate
Swap poppy seeds for chia if preferred

Tools You’ll Need
9×5-inch loaf pan or 8-inch round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Zester and citrus juicer
Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a loaf or cake pan, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, oil, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Make the Batter
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake for 40–50 minutes (for loaf) or 30–35 minutes (for round cake), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Drizzle over the warm cake, allowing the glaze to soak in slightly.

Step 7: Serve
Let cool fully before slicing.
Serve plain or with berries and a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
Use fresh lemons – Zest and juice give the best flavor
Don’t skip the yogurt – Keeps the cake extra moist
Let it rest – The flavors intensify after a few hours
Double the glaze – For extra lemony punch
Store covered – Keeps it moist and flavorful for days

Serving Suggestions
With Tea or Coffee – A classic pairing
As a Light Dessert – With fresh berries or fruit compote
For Brunch – Alongside a fruit salad or yogurt bowl
Dressed Up – Topped with powdered sugar or candied lemon slices
As a Gift – Wrapped loaf is perfect for sharing

Storage & Freezing

Storing:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness

Freezing:
Wrap cooled cake (whole or sliced) in plastic wrap and foil
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it vegan?
Yes – use plant-based yogurt and flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled can work in a pinch—just be sure to include zest.

What if I don’t have poppy seeds?
You can omit them or replace with chia seeds or skip entirely.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes – use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

How do I make muffins instead?
Bake in muffin tins for 18–22 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Final Thoughts
This Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is sunshine in every bite. It’s simple to make, deeply flavorful, and versatile enough for any occasion—from casual coffee breaks to elegant brunches. Once you taste the balance of tart lemon and tender crumb, you’ll be hooked!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American / Bakery Style

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
Calories: 270 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g

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