If you’re searching for a treat that strikes the perfect balance between zesty and sweet, the Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is going to become your new favorite. Each slice is bursting with sunny citrus flavor, tender crumb, and a delightful poppy seed crunch, making it a showstopper for any brunch table or afternoon tea. This cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, with a golden exterior and a simple glaze that makes it impossible to resist another slice.

Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is in its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a purpose, from maximizing the vibrant lemon flavor to creating a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture you won’t forget.

All-purpose flour: Gives the cake its perfect structure, keeping it light but sturdy enough for beautiful Bundt detailing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve that tender, golden crust.
Baking powder & baking soda: This dynamic duo ensures the cake rises high and bakes up fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharply accentuates the lemon flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and moisture—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Eggs: Essential for binding and structure, and they help the cake rise beautifully.
Greek yogurt or sour cream: Keeps the crumb moist and adds a gentle tang that enhances the citrus.
Lemons: You’ll use both zest and juice for that unmistakable bright flavor.
Poppy seeds: Tiny but mighty, they add a playful crunch and classic look.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors, giving the cake a deep, inviting aroma.
Powdered sugar: For a sweet, simple glaze that soaks into the cake just a bit for extra goodness.
Milk or lemon juice (for glaze): Loosens the glaze and amps up the citrus, if you like extra tang.

How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Start by generously greasing your Bundt pan, making sure to get into every groove and curve—this is key for an easy release and a gorgeous finished cake. Set your butter, eggs, and Greek yogurt or sour cream out to come to room temperature, giving you a smoother batter and better texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the poppy seeds so they’re evenly distributed—this ensures that every slice of Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is flecked with those cheerful dots.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which makes the cake tender and gives it a lovely rise.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Yogurt, and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the Greek yogurt or sour cream, vanilla extract, and all that glorious lemon zest and juice. This mixture should look creamy and ultra fragrant—the base for our Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake’s signature flavor.

Step 5: Combine and Pour

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two or three parts, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix! Pour the finished batter into your prepared Bundt pan and, just for luck, tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake until the cake is golden, risen, and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely—this helps the cake keep its beautiful shape.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish

Mix powdered sugar with just enough milk or lemon juice to create a pourable glaze. Drizzle generously over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing. This final touch amps up the visual appeal and amps up the lemony punch.

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake

Garnishes

A drizzle of glaze is classic, but you can take it further with a sprinkle of extra poppy seeds, a dusting of powdered sugar, or some curls of lemon zest for a burst of fresh color on top of your Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake.

Side Dishes

Pair your cake with a tangy lemon curd, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for special occasions. Fresh berries on the side will echo the cake’s zestiness and add a pop of color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to steal the show at your next gathering, serve the Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake on a vintage cake stand and adorn it with edible flowers. Or slice it into petite wedges for a dessert platter—the golden crumb and flecks of poppy seed look simply stunning at any angle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake at its best by wrapping leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cake stays moist, and the lemon flavor continues to develop even as it sits.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the fully cooled cake (without glaze) in a double layer of foil and plastic wrap. Tuck it in the freezer for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature before adding a fresh glaze just before serving.

Reheating

If you crave a warm slice, lightly heat a piece in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives the crumb and brings out even more fragrance, especially if you want a comforting treat on a chilly day.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice delivers a brighter, more vibrant flavor, so it’s strongly recommended, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work—just expect a slightly milder taste.

What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?

If you lack a Bundt pan, you can bake this batter in two loaf pans or a large tube pan, adjusting baking times as needed. You may lose the distinctive shape, but the flavor will be just as memorable.

Is it necessary to soak poppy seeds before baking?

Soaking poppy seeds is not required, but you can stir them into the wet ingredients and let them sit briefly to soften. This helps them blend seamlessly into the Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake’s batter and enhances their unique crunch.

Can I make this cake gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free baking flour blend and check the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure and the same light crumb.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking?

Generous greasing and flouring of the pan are crucial for easy release. A baking spray with flour or a homemade mix of butter and flour works wonders for a clean, beautiful finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this bright and cheerful Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake in your own kitchen. It’s pure sunshine in every bite, and always earns rave reviews. Gather your ingredients and share a slice—or two—with someone special!

Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake Recipe