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.
Author:Audrey
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
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
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
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.
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.
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.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the grapefruit juice, grapefruit zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients well.
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.
Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even baking.
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.
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.
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.