POPPY SEED CAKE WITH FRUITS

Poppy Seed and Fruit Cake - a perfect delicacy to delight your taste buds! This recipe combines the rich flavors of poppy seeds with the juicy sweetness of fruits, creating an irresistible combination. Ideal as a quick dessert for gatherings with friends or as a delicious snack with tea, this cake will not only look fantastic but will also fill your home with wonderful aromas while baking. Get ready to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Required ingredients:
- 150 g flour
- 200 g ground poppy seeds
- 250 ml milk
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Fruits (plums and peaches) halved and dusted with sugar

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Prepare the poppy seeds: Start by boiling the poppy seeds in 250 ml of milk for 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor of the poppy seeds but also softens them, making them easier to incorporate into the mixture. Once boiled, let it cool.

2. Beat the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to cream them together until fluffy and smooth. This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which will help the cake rise.

3. Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, continuing to mix. Make sure each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. This step will give the cake a rich texture.

4. Add the flavors: Dissolve the baking powder in a little lemon juice and add it to the bowl along with the lemon zest. The fresh lemon flavor will perfectly complement the taste of the poppy seeds.

5. Incorporate the flour: Gradually add the flour and mix well. Finally, set aside a piece of dough the size of an apple, which you will refrigerate for later use.

6. Combine the ingredients: Next, take the cooled poppy seed mixture and mix it with the rest of the batter. Then, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and carefully fold them into the batter using a spatula to avoid losing the incorporated air.

7. Prepare the baking tray: Take a baking dish (preferably 20x30 cm) and grease it with butter, then sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking.

8. Assemble the cake: Pour half of the batter into the tray and level it evenly. Place the fruits (plums and peaches) cut side down on top. Not only will they add an attractive look to the cake, but they will also provide a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

9. Finish with the remaining batter: Grate the piece of dough you set aside earlier over the top of the cake. If it's too soft, you can add a little flour to make it firmer. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool in the tray, then cut it into squares and dust with sugar if desired. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Serving suggestions: This poppy seed and fruit cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but you can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional information: One serving of cake (approximately 100g) contains about 320 calories, providing protein from the eggs and poppy seeds, healthy fats from the butter, and a good amount of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar. The fruits add vitamins and antioxidants, making this cake a healthier choice than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of fruits? Yes, you can experiment with various seasonal fruits such as apples, pears, or cherries.

2. Is the cake suitable for vegans? If you want a vegan version, you can replace the butter with vegan margarine and the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.

3. How can I store the cake? The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for longer preservation.

4. Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. You can thaw it at room temperature when you want to serve it.

This poppy seed and fruit cake is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to bring loved ones together around a table full of treats. So step out of your comfort zone and experiment in the kitchen with this delicious recipe!