Sunny Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: A Taste of Spring in Every Slice

Embrace the essence of spring with this delicious lemon and poppy seed cake, perfect for brightening up any afternoon tea. With a tangy lemon flavor complemented by the subtle crunch of ground poppy seeds, this cake offers a refreshing tartness that pairs wonderfully with its sweet and moist base. The aroma of lemon and pastry will fill your home, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice of sunshine.

Why you'll love it:

• Vibrant lemon flavor: Fresh lemon zest and tangy lemon syrup infuse the cake, giving it a bright citrus taste that is both invigorating and comforting.
• Unique texture: Adding poppy seeds gives the cake a nice bite, enhancing its texture and visual appeal.
• Simple elegance: Although sophisticated in flavor and appearance, this cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to impress without the stress.

Perfect occasion:

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is an ideal choice for spring and summer gatherings, especially for occasions like Mother's Day, bridal showers, or just enjoying a weekend afternoon quiet end. It's also perfect for Easter parties and picnics.

Decorating Tips:

• Sprinkling with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal of the cake.
• Lemon slices and zest: Garnish with thin lemon slices and a pinch of fresh lemon zest to emphasize the citrus theme.
• Edible flowers: Decorate with edible flowers like pansies or violets for a beautiful spring display.

Ingredients for the cake batter:

• 3 large eggs
• 150 grams of Greek yogurt (2%-5% fat)
• 150 grams of vegetable or olive oil
• 60 grams of ground poppy seeds
• 230 grams of caster sugar
• Zest of 2 medium lemons
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 250 grams of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Ingredients for lemon syrup:

• 100-150 grams of lemon juice
• 90-100 grams of granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. to preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare your mold by greasing it or lining it with baking paper.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, Greek yogurt, oil, lemon zest and sugar. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Prepare the dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
4. Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a silicone spatula until well combined to avoid overmixing.
5. Add poppy seeds: Divide the dough into two bowls. Stir the ground poppy seeds into one of the bowls.
6. Create a marble effect: Alternately pour the batter from the two bowls into the prepared mold to create a marbled effect.
7. Cook: Place in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Otherwise, cook for another 5 to 7 minutes.
8. Prepare the syrup: While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon syrup by mixing the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
9. Cool and soak: Let the cake cool in the mold for 10 to 15 minutes, then pour the lemon syrup over the cake, letting it soak in well.
10. Final touch: Once the cake has absorbed the syrup and completely cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Enjoy this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake as a refreshing treat that brings a slice of spring to your table, perfect for making any occasion a little brighter!