Poppy seed cake

Fluffy Poppy Seed and Semolina Cake - A Simple and Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Introduction

In a world filled with elaborate desserts, the poppy seed and semolina cake stands out for its simplicity and authenticity. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary traditions, offers a delicate flavor and a fluffy texture, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet moment at home, this cake is always an inspired choice.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 cup ground poppy seeds (you can leave half of the quantity whole for a more interesting look and taste)
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons oil (sunflower oil or a light olive oil are excellent choices)
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda quenched with lemon juice (lemon juice adds a note of freshness)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Tips for ingredients

- Poppy seeds: This is the key ingredient, bringing not only a unique taste but also nutritional benefits. It is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. You can use ground poppy seeds or leave some seeds intact for a pleasant textural contrast.
- Semolina: It is a good source of carbohydrates and gives the cake a slightly dense consistency. If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace semolina with almond flour or rice flour, but you will need to adjust the quantities.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste or with natural sweeteners for a healthier option.

Preparing the cake

1. Prepare the semolina: In a large bowl, add 1 cup of semolina and pour the warm milk over it. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes. This step is essential, as it allows the semolina to hydrate, resulting in a fluffier texture.

2. Beat the eggs: In another bowl, beat the 3 eggs using a whisk or mixer. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color.

3. Add the oil: While continuing to mix, add the 4 tablespoons of oil. This ingredient helps keep the cake moist and gives it a pleasant flavor.

4. Combine the ingredients: In the egg mixture, incorporate the hydrated semolina, 1 cup of ground poppy seeds, and the baking soda quenched with lemon juice. Mix everything well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

5. Prepare the baking pan: Grease a baking pan with oil and dust it with flour or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

6. Bake the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake at a moderate temperature (about 180°C) for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when it passes the toothpick test (when inserted in the middle, it should come out clean).

7. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it and sprinkle powdered sugar on top.

Variations and serving suggestions

- Add fruits: You can add seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries to the cake mixture for an extra touch of freshness.
- Ice cream: Serve the cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperature and texture.
- Beverages: This cake pairs excellently with herbal tea or flavored coffee.

Nutritional benefits

This poppy seed and semolina cake offers a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making it a healthier choice compared to other fat-rich desserts. The poppy seeds provide a significant amount of fiber and minerals, thus contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace semolina with another ingredient? Yes, you can use almond flour or rice flour, but make sure to adjust the proportions.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, this cake can be frozen. Cut it into portions and wrap it well in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.

Conclusion

The poppy seed and semolina cake is not just a simple dessert recipe, but also a way to bring a touch of tradition and comfort into your life. With each slice, you will enjoy the rich taste of poppy seeds and the fluffy texture of semolina. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a moment of culinary indulgence!