Imagine a dessert that's not just a cake, but a culinary masterpiece that defies all vegan baking expectations. This Vegan Lemon Poppy Seed Layer Cake is about to revolutionize your dessert game, delivering a burst of citrusy brightness, delicate poppy seed texture, and creamy frosting that will make even non-vegans weak at the knees. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that proves plant-based desserts can be absolutely mind-blowing!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 cup vegan frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are also lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will help remove any lumps and ensure a smooth cake texture.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, almond milk, lemon juice, and vegetable oil until well combined and the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Fold in the poppy seeds, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter equally between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cakes are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of vegan frosting on top.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining vegan frosting.
- For best results, chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest or poppy seeds.
Tips
- • Always sift your dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, tender cake texture. • Use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant citrus flavor - bottled juice can taste flat. • Don't overmix the batter; mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the vegan frosting from melting. • For an extra flavor boost, add some lemon zest to your frosting. • Chilling the cake before serving helps the frosting set and enhances the overall texture. • Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation and a more consistent batter.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
