Description
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly tender, this Moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is a classic favorite that’s perfect for springtime brunches, afternoon tea, or just because you need a slice of sunshine. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and speckled with nutty poppy seeds, this cake stays soft for days thanks to a tangy yogurt-based batter and a simple lemon glaze that seals in the moisture.
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp poppy seeds
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2 tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
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Zest of 2 lemons
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½ cup (120 ml) neutral oil (like canola or sunflower)
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2 large eggs
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½ cup (125 g) plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
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¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
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½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
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1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Optional Garnish:
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Extra lemon zest
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Thin lemon slices
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A sprinkle of poppy seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Pan
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a loaf pan or round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar using your fingers or a spoon to release oils.
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Add oil, eggs, yogurt, lemon juice, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Make the Batter
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
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Stir gently with a spatula or whisk just until no flour remains. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 40–50 minutes (loaf pan) or 30–35 minutes (round pan), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
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In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
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Once the cake is cool, drizzle glaze over the top and let it set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh zest and juice are essential for vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Stir gently to keep the cake light and tender.
Glaze While Cool – If the cake is too warm, the glaze will melt and slide off.
Yogurt Matters – Use full-fat yogurt for richness and moisture.
Make It Ahead – Tastes even better the next day once the flavors settle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American / European-inspired