Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake: An Incredible Ultimate Citrus Delight Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 118 reviews
  • Author: Harper
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake is a refreshing and vibrant citrus dessert that blends the bright zing of grapefruit with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. This moist and fluffy cake offers a unique texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an ideal treat for tea parties, brunches, or as a light dessert. Simple to prepare with accessible ingredients, this cake is sure to become a favorite for those craving a light, flavorful citrus delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon grapefruit zest
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds to evenly distribute the leavening and seeds.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a tender cake texture.
  4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to ensure proper emulsification.
  5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the grapefruit juice, grapefruit zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until all the wet ingredients are fully combined to infuse the batter with citrus flavor.
  6. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and to maintain a light cake texture.
  7. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured 8-inch cake pan. Use a rubber spatula to smooth the top evenly for uniform baking.
  8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
  9. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. Then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature to prevent sogginess.
  10. Frost (Optional): Once cooled, optionally frost the cake with a light glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with grapefruit juice for added sweetness and citrus zing. Alternatively, enjoy the cake plain for a lighter treat.

Notes

  • Use fresh grapefruit juice and zest for the best, most vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Measure flour and sugar accurately to maintain the ideal cake texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to prevent a dense cake.
  • Experiment with different glazes like lemon or orange for a citrus variation.
  • The cake pairs beautifully with herbal teas or sparkling waters for a refreshing experience.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: grapefruit cake, poppy seed cake, citrus dessert, baking recipe, easy cake recipe, moist citrus cake, grapefruit poppy seed dessert, homemade cake

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://harperellington.com/grapefruit-poppy-seed-cake-an-incredible-ultimate-citrus-delight-recipe/