Poppy Seed Cake

Poppy Seed Cake
Poppy Seed Cake

Introduction

Babka makowa, or poppy seed cake, is a delightful and traditional Polish dessert that brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any table. This rich and moist cake, filled with a sweet poppy seed filling, is especially popular during festive occasions and family gatherings. It boasts a unique flavor profile and is often enjoyed with tea or coffee. The recipe below will guide you through making this scrumptious treat step by step.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– All-purpose flour: 500g
– Poppy seeds: 250g
– Sugar: 200g
– Butter: 200g, softened
– Eggs: 4 large
– Milk: 200ml
– Baking powder: 1 packet (approximately 16g)
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Lemon zest: from one lemon

Prep Time

The preparation of babka makowa takes approximately 30 minutes. This allows you to gather all your ingredients and prepare the necessary components for the cake.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for the babka makowa is around 50-60 minutes, depending on your oven. Therefore, the total time for making this delicious cake, including prep and cooking, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe yields one large babka makowa, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy your baking!

Poppy Seed Cake
Poppy Seed Cake

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a bundt pan thoroughly with butter and dust it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground poppy seeds. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the soft butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Gradually add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture. Start with the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add milk, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the prepared batter into the greased bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the baba from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Serving Suggestion

This cake is delicious as is but can also be served with powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate glaze for added sweetness.

Storage

Store the cooled babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding chopped nuts, raisins, or a hint of lemon zest to the batter for different flavor profiles.

Poppy Seed Cake
Poppy Seed Cake

Cook techniques

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