Description

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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Ingredients

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

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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.

Notes

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

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American / Bakery Style