Old England Poppy Seed Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: British

A moist, flavorful poppy seed cake with a hint of lemon, perfect for teatime or special occasions, appealing to those who enjoy rich, citrus-infused baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup poppy seed
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Cream oil, eggs, milk, and lemon juice together.
  2. Add all dry ingredients to the mixture.
  3. Blend until smooth.
  4. Fold in the poppy seed.

Tips & Substitutions

For an even richer flavor, consider substituting half the oil with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use almond milk instead of regular milk for a nutty twist. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification. If you prefer a sweeter cake, add a bit more sugar or a splash of vanilla extract. Experiment with adding a teaspoon of grated lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Old England Poppy Seed Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This cake pairs beautifully with tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat. For a delightful meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a dessert after hearty dishes like Potato Halushki.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Poppy Seed Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold. If you like it warm, a quick toast in the oven can also enhance its flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old England Poppy Seed Cake contains roughly 2490 calories, with 22g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 204g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (83% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2497mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).

2490 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.2g 44% DV
Total Fat 203.6g 100% DV
Carbs 152.4g 55% DV
Fiber 10g 36% DV
Sugar 15.2g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2497.4mg 100% DV
Potassium 774.3mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 156.6mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 94.2mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 6.1mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 1078.7mg 83% DV
Iron 11.3mg 63% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of flour for this cake?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, the texture may be denser. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum to help with structure.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake is versatile and pairs well with fresh fruits or a citrus glaze drizzled on top. You can also serve it alongside a light fruit salad or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or replacing some of the lemon juice with orange juice for a different citrus profile. You can also fold in some chopped dried fruits or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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