Sherry Poppy Seed Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 50 min Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful poppy seed cake infused with sherry and nutmeg, perfect for gatherings or special occasions, offering a delightful nutty and boozy taste experience.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 package yellow cake mix without pudding
  • 1 small package instant vanilla pudding
  • 3/4 cup sherry
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 1/4 cup poppy seed

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and mix for 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes, depending on the pan size.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a high-quality sherry. If you don’t have sherry, you can substitute with a mix of white wine and a splash of brandy. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification. If you're looking for a twist, adding a teaspoon of almond extract can enhance the nutty flavor of the poppy seeds. This cake is inspired by classic American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of elegance. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside Butter Pecan Cream Cheese Bars. This cake is perfect for gatherings or as a special treat with afternoon tea.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds or warm it gently in the oven.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sherry Poppy Seed Cake contains roughly 985 calories, with 8g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

985 kcal 49% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.6g 15% DV
Total Fat 73.1g 94% DV
Carbs 79.8g 29% DV
Fiber 10.8g 39% DV
Sugar 6g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 296.9mg 13% DV
Potassium 468.7mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 118.9mg 40% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.7mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Calcium 261.1mg 20% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg

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?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to store it properly to maintain its moisture.

What can I substitute for the yellow cake mix?

If you prefer a homemade version, you can make your own yellow cake using flour, sugar, baking powder, and eggs. However, using a cake mix saves time and ensures great texture. Check for gluten-free options if needed.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

While the cake is delicious on its own, a light glaze made from powdered sugar and sherry can enhance its flavor. However, avoid heavy frostings that may overpower the delicate taste of the cake.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →