Plantation Poppy Seed Cake
A moist and flavorful vanilla-flavored cake with a hint of sophistication from sherry, perfect for special occasions or teatime. Its tender crumb and aromatic sweetness make it a delightful treat for family gatherings or entertaining guests. Serve warm or cooled, with fruit preserves or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, stirring until just blended.
- Beat at medium speed of electric mixer exactly 2 minutes.
- Pour batter into a well-greased 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until the cake is done.
- Serve warm or cool.
- If desired, serve with fruit preserves, applesauce, or ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and you can substitute the cream sherry with apple juice or white grape juice for a non-alcoholic version. When mixing, avoid overbeating to keep the cake light and fluffy. If you're looking for a unique twist, adding a tablespoon of lemon zest can brighten the cake's flavor, similar to what you'd find in a traditional Country Coffee Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with fruit preserves, applesauce, or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as part of a brunch spread that includes other American recipes like Sweet Potato Muffins.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Poppy Seed Cake contains roughly 230 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value).
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 make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful, making it perfect for gatherings or brunch. Just give it a quick warm-up in the microwave before serving, if desired.
What can I use instead of cream sherry?
If you don't have cream sherry on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor. Alternatively, white grape juice works well and keeps the cake alcohol-free.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).