Poppy Seed Cake

Name: Poppy Seed Cake
Ingredients: 800g flour type 000; 250ml warm milk; 100g sugar; 40g yeast; lemon zest; 100g soft butter; 3 eggs; 100g ground poppy seeds; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; butter for one baking tray and the cake.

Doughs and pastries - Poppy Seed Cake by Emilia P. - Recipia

Poppy Seed Cake - An Ancient Delight for Holidays Poppy seed cake is a traditional recipe often found on holiday tables, evoking flavors and memories of moments spent with loved ones. With a fluffy texture and aromatic filling, this cake is not just a dessert but a true culinary experience. Whether it's Christmas, Easter, or any other special occasion, this cake will bring joy and flavor. Preparation time: 30 minutes Rising time: 1 hour Baking time: 40 minutes Number of servings: 2 cakes Necessary ingredients: 800 g flour type 000 250 ml lukewarm milk 100 g sugar 40 g fresh yeast 1 pinch of salt grated zest of one lemon 100 g soft butter 3 eggs 100 g ground poppy seeds 2 tablespoons powdered sugar butter for greasing the pan Step 1: Preparing the yeast Start by sifting the flour into a large, tall bowl. This will help aerate the flour, resulting in a fluffier dough. Create a well in the center of the flour, add the crushed yeast, a teaspoon of sugar, and 50 ml of lukewarm milk. Gently mix with your fingers to form a paste. Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 15 minutes. It is important that the milk is lukewarm, not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Step 2: Preparing the dough After the yeast has risen, add the remaining lukewarm milk, the rest of the sugar, the pinch of salt, lemon zest, eggs, and soft butter. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients. Begin kneading the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Step 3: Rising the dough After kneading, cover the dough with a towel and let it rise near a heat source for 40-50 minutes, or until it doubles in volume. An ideal place for rising is next to a radiator or in the oven preheated to a very low temperature, then turned off. Step 4: Preparing the filling In the meantime, mix the ground poppy seeds with the 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. This mixture will add a subtle sweetness and rich flavor to your cake. If desired, you can also add a few drops of vanilla essence for extra flavor. Step 5: Shaping the cakes After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured work surface. Gently knead it to release the air and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet, about 1 cm thick. Evenly sprinkle the poppy seed and sugar mixture over the dough. Carefully roll the dough, ensuring the filling does not spill out. Step 6: Baking the cakes Place the cakes in buttered loaf pans. Brush the surface with melted butter or an egg yolk for a golden, shiny crust. Let the cakes rise for another 20 minutes, then place them in a preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for about 40 minutes or until golden and a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Step 7: Cooling and serving After baking, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool covered with a clean towel to keep them moist and fluffy. This step is essential to maintain the cake's texture. Practical tip: You can also add ground nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor. Another interesting variation is to use cocoa instead of poppy seeds for a chocolate cake. Nutritional benefits: Poppy seed cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and fiber. A serving of cake can contain approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the size of the slice and the ingredients used. Frequently asked questions: 1. How can I make the cake less sweet? When preparing the filling, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners. 2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer? Store the cake in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed later. 3. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package. Pair this cake with a cup of hibiscus tea or a glass of warm milk for an unforgettable experience. Each slice will bring an explosion of flavors, and you'll be proud of your achievement. Enjoy your meal!