Poppy seed cake with oranges

Poppy and Orange Cake - a fragrant delight, perfect for any occasion!

Who doesn't love a well-made cake with a unique combination of flavors? Today, I will present you with a recipe for poppy and orange cake that promises to become a favorite among family and friends. This cake is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Let's venture together into the sweet world of baking!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 180 g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250 g flour
- 4 heaping tablespoons of unground poppy seeds
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- juice from one orange (approximately 100 ml)

*For the cream:*
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding
- sugar (according to the instructions on the packet)
- milk (according to the instructions on the packet)

*For soaking and decorating:*
- freshly squeezed juice from one large orange

Steps to prepare the cake

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). This is an essential step as a well-heated oven will ensure even baking of the base.

2. Prepare the cake pan: Grease a cake pan with butter and flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, allowing you to easily remove it after baking.

3. Prepare the base mixture: In a large bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and changes color to light. This is an important technique as the air incorporated into the butter will help the cake to be fluffy.

4. Add the eggs: Beat the eggs with a pinch of salt (a knife tip) and gradually add them to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well to integrate the eggs into the composition.

5. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and add the mixture to the butter composition, alternating with the orange juice. Gently mix until all ingredients are well integrated. Finally, add the poppy seeds and mix again.

6. Bake the bases: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until the base turns golden. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the base is ready!

7. Cool the bases: Allow the base to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

8. Soak the bases: After the base has cooled, use a toothpick or fork to make a few holes all over the surface. Squeeze the freshly squeezed orange juice over the base, ensuring it is well soaked.

9. Prepare the cream: Follow the instructions on the vanilla pudding packet. Mix with sugar and milk according to the instructions, then pour the pudding over the base, leveling it evenly.

10. Cool the cake: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.

11. Serve the cake: The next day, remove the cake from the fridge, remove the ring from the pan, and slice it. You can decorate the cake with grated chocolate or orange slices for a more appealing look.

Practical tips

- For a moister base: If you want an even moister texture, you can prepare a syrup from one cup of water (250 ml) and two tablespoons of sugar. Boil the syrup for 5 minutes, let it cool, and use it along with the orange juice to soak the base.

- Variations: You can experiment with different flavors by adding a few drops of vanilla or almond essence to the base mixture. You can also replace the poppy seeds with ground nuts for a different texture and taste.

Nutritional information

Each serving of cake contains approximately 350 calories, making it a delicious yet relatively balanced choice. Poppy seeds provide fiber, protein, and calcium, while oranges offer vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system. This cake can be an ideal option for those who want a tasty dessert without neglecting their health.

Serving suggestions

This poppy and orange cake pairs perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a fragrant espresso. It adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any meal. It can be served as dessert for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself on the weekend.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may change.

2. How can I store the cake?
- The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent it from losing moisture.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
- You can adapt the recipe using vegan butter and replacing the eggs with a combination of banana puree or soy yogurt.

This poppy and orange cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a cooking experience that brings joy and flavor in every bite. So put on your favorite apron and let’s enjoy the magic of baking! Enjoy your meal!