Homemade Vanilla Poppy Seed Cake

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Introduction:
Homemade vanilla poppy seed cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavor of vanilla with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Moist, tender, and bursting with flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. With its simple yet sophisticated taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Fold in Poppy Seeds: Gently fold in the poppy seeds until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
  10. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  11. Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into wedges and serve. Enjoy your homemade vanilla poppy seed cake!

Tips:

  • To enhance the flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
  • For a richer glaze, you can substitute orange juice for the milk in the glaze recipe.
  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Description:
Homemade vanilla poppy seed cake is a delightful treat that marries the comforting flavor of vanilla with the unique texture and subtle crunch of poppy seeds. Moist and tender, with a delicate crumb, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to dessert after a special dinner. With its simple elegance and irresistible taste, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Nutritional Information:
(Per serving – 1/12 of the cake, without glaze)

  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 4g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

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