Print

Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake: An Incredible Ultimate Citrus Delight Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

A moist and flavorful Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake combining the bright zest and juice of grapefruit with crunchy poppy seeds, baked to perfection for an incredible citrus delight.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grapefruit juice
  • 1 tablespoon grapefruit zest
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds to ensure even distribution.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air for a tender cake.
  4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to achieve a smooth batter.
  5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the grapefruit juice, grapefruit zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients well.
  6. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
  7. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even baking.
  8. Bake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the cake is done.
  9. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
  10. Frost (Optional): Once the cake has cooled, optionally frost it with a light glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with grapefruit juice for extra citrus flavor, or enjoy the cake plain for a lighter dessert.

Notes

  • Use fresh grapefruit juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
  • Ensure butter is properly softened to cream well with sugar.
  • Do not overmix batter once dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense cake.
  • If a glaze is desired, mix powdered sugar with enough grapefruit juice to create a pourable consistency.
  • The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.