Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake

Name: Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp poppy seeds; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 3 large eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); ½ cup fresh grapefruit juice; Zest of 1 grapefruit; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream

Published: July 23, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake is a breeze to make, perfect for beginner bakers
Its vibrant flavors will brighten up any gathering or celebration
The visual appeal of the cake makes it a showstopper at any event
Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat; it’s versatile enough for any time of day

My family couldn’t stop raving about how light and refreshing this cake is, making it an instant favorite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake; use high-quality flour for the best texture.
Poppy Seeds: These tiny seeds add delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements grapefruit perfectly.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential here; adjust based on your preferred level of sweetness.
Baking Powder: This helps our cake rise beautifully, giving it that fluffy texture we all crave.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors in our cake.
Eggs: They provide structure and moisture; use room temperature eggs for better results.
Unsalted Butter: A rich base that adds richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Fresh Grapefruit Juice and Zest: This is where the magic happens; fresh juice brings brightness while zest adds intense flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out our flavor profile beautifully.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds moisture and tanginess, keeping our cake luscious and not dry. cream cheese syrup recipe.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This keeps everything organized and ensures you won’t forget anything crucial.

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray. The smell of butter melting will get you excited about baking!

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Take a moment to appreciate how pretty those seeds look against the flour backdrop.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. It should scream “I’m ready for cake!” when you’re done! For more inspiration, check out this A Slice of Heaven Cake recipe.

Add Eggs and Flavorings: Mix in eggs one at a time, then add grapefruit juice, zest, and vanilla extract. Your kitchen should now smell heavenly!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold in your dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Be gentle here; you want that airy texture!

Bake Away!: Pour batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Grab an apron because this is where things get exciting!

Once cooled slightly, let’s flip that baby onto a wire rack! You did it! Get ready to enjoy slices of happiness drizzled with icing or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

Now you’ve created something special—a Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake that will brighten anyone’s day! Each bite promises layers of flavor along with cheerful memories shared over dessert. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake is a delightful twist on traditional cakes
The citrusy zing and nutty crunch create a flavor explosion that will surprise your taste buds
Ideal for brunch or dessert, this cake pairs perfectly with tea or coffee, making it a versatile option for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in eggs before adding dry ingredients for even distribution.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping grapefruit juice with lemon or orange for different flavor profiles. You can also add nuts or coconut for extra texture. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a light and airy batter
Be cautious while folding in the poppy seeds; overmixing can lead to a dense cake
Use fresh grapefruit juice for the best flavor; bottled juice lacks vibrancy and zest

The first time I made Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They were amazed that something so delicious came from my kitchen. delicious snickerdoodle bundt cake.

FAQ

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Absolutely! Lemon or orange can be used instead of grapefruit for a flavorful variation.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean if the cake is done baking.

Can I freeze Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

0 Shares