Lemon Poppy Seed Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Poppy seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the Cake:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated.
   • Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for an additional 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top of the first and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
   • If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds on top for garnish.
6. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy!

This Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect balance of tart lemon flavor and sweet, creamy frosting. It’s ideal for any occasion and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.