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Lemon Poppy Seed Cake recipe

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
A bright and moist Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with a refreshing citrus flavor and a delightful lemon glaze.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup poppy seeds
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice until combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir in the poppy seeds until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Lemon Glaze

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
  • Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides.

Serving and Storage

  • Slice and serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature. Do not overmix the batter. Measure flour accurately using the spoon and level method.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and lemon juice if necessary.
How to Serve: Best served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the cake a day in advance to enhance flavors.
Keyword citrus cake, easy lemon cake recipe, Lemon Poppy Seed Cake