Poppy Seed Cake

Poppy Seed Guguluf - a quick and delicious dessert, perfect for celebrating special moments or simply indulging on an ordinary day. This simple recipe combines the fluffy texture of a sponge cake with the unmistakable flavor of poppy seeds, resulting in a treat that will delight the taste buds of the whole family.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Necessary ingredients:
- 200 g butter at room temperature
- 200 g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250 g wheat flour
- 50 g poppy seeds
- 10 g baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 100 ml milk (optional for a moister texture)
- Zest of one lemon (for extra flavor)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve a good emulsification between the butter and sugar, which is essential for a light and airy texture.

2. Butter Cream: In a large bowl, beat the butter with the sugar using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to rush this process, as the incorporated air will make the guguluf fluffier.

3. Adding the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures proper homogenization of the mixture. If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

4. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. Add the poppy seeds and lemon zest to enhance the flavors. Gently mix with a spatula.

5. Combining the Mixtures: Start adding the flour mixture to the butter cream, alternating with the milk (if using). Mix gently to avoid developing gluten, which could make the guguluf denser. When the mixture is homogenous, stop.

6. Preparing the Pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a guguluf pan with butter and sprinkle with flour or use cooking spray to prevent sticking.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the guguluf in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. When baked, it should be lightly golden and pull away from the edges of the pan.

8. Cooling and Serving: Let the guguluf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look or serve it with vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream for a decadent touch.

Serving suggestion: This poppy seed guguluf is delicious served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also add a berry sauce for an explosion of flavor.

Possible variations: You can experiment with various flavors by adding ground nuts, raisins, or even chopped dark chocolate. If you want a moister guguluf, add a little more milk or some natural yogurt to the mixture.

This poppy seed guguluf recipe is not only easy to make but also an excellent choice for any occasion. Treat your family and friends to this delicacy that will turn any meal into a special moment!