There’s something undeniably delightful about a Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake. The harmonious blend of tangy lemon zest, nutty poppy seeds, and the unique flavor profile of sourdough make this cake a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it also serves as a stunning centerpiece for gatherings, elevating any occasion with its inviting aroma and tantalizing appearance.
Moreover, this delightful bundt cake offers a wonderful way to utilize leftover sourdough starter, bridging the gap between waste and deliciousness. As you slice through its moist texture, you’ll discover the perfect balance of sweetness and zest, leaving you craving more. So, get ready to indulge in this scrumptious twist on a classic cake that brings joy to every bite!
Why Choose a Bundt Cake?:
Bundt cakes offer a delightful alternative to traditional layer cakes, and the Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is no exception. Their unique shapes not only elevate any dessert table but also enhance the baking process. The design of a Bundt pan promotes even cooking, ensuring a moist and tender crumb. Additionally, the iconic ridges provide an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for gatherings or celebrations.
Another reason to opt for Bundt cakes is their versatility. You can easily infuse flavors into the batter, like the refreshing notes of lemon paired with poppy seeds in our featured recipe. This makes them suitable for various occasions, whether it be a casual brunch or a festive holiday feast. Plus, they are easier to slice and serve, minimizing mess and fuss.
Should you be in the mood for something equally delicious yet different, consider trying our Blackberry Upside Down Cake. This creativity in baking allows for endless flavor experimentation while keeping the Bundt style at the forefront of your culinary adventures.

Ingredients for Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake:
This delightful Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake combines the tang of sourdough with the brightness of lemon, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Gather these ingredients for a scrumptious treat:
- 300 grams Cake Flour (or 275g all-purpose flour + 25g cornstarch)
- ½ tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- ½ tsp Baking Soda
- 38 grams Poppy Seeds (¼ cup)
- 400 grams Granulated Sugar (2 cups)
- 226 grams Unsalted Butter, softened (2 sticks, 1 cup)
- 3 TBS Lemon Zest
- 3 Eggs
- 181 grams Buttermilk (¾ cup)
- 150 grams Sourdough Discard
- 2 TBS Lemon Juice
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
Make the Lemon Simple Syrup
For added flavor, you’ll need:
- 50 grams Granulated Sugar (¼ cup)
- 59 grams Water (¼ cup)
- 2 TBS Lemon Juice
Prepare the Lemon Glaze
Finish with a glaze made from:
- 120 grams Powdered Sugar
- 2 TBS Lemon Juice
For a similar refreshing flavor profile, check out my Asparagus Lemon Pasta recipe. It’s a delightful addition to your meal plan!
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Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake is a delightful twist on a classic, combining the tangy flavor of lemon with the unique texture of sourdough discard and crunchy poppy seeds.
Ingredients
300 grams Cake flour
½ tsp Sea Salt
1 tsp Baking Powder
½ tsp Baking Soda
38 grams Poppy Seeds
400 grams Granulated Sugar
226 grams Unsalted Butter
softened
3 TBS Lemon Zest
3 Eggs
181 grams Buttermilk
150 grams Sourdough Discard
2 TBS Lemon Juice
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
50 grams Granulated Sugar for Lemon Simple Syrup
59 grams Water for Lemon Simple Syrup
2 TBS Lemon Juice for Lemon Simple Syrup
120 grams Powdered Sugar for Lemon Glaze
2 TBS Lemon Juice for Lemon Glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a bundt pan by greasing and dusting with flour.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sea salt, baking powder, baking soda, and poppy seeds.
- In another large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk, sourdough discard, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, make the Lemon Simple Syrup by combining the granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a cooling rack over a plate to catch drips.
- Brush the warm cake with the lemon simple syrup.
- For the lemon glaze, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.
- Slice and serve your delicious Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake!
Notes
Ensure the cake cools completely before glazing for the best results. You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake, bundt cake recipe, sourdough recipes, lemon cake, poppy seed cake
How to Prepare Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake:
To create a delightful Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your Bundt pan to ensure a flawless cake release. In a mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of cake flour, sea salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set this dry mixture aside.
Next, in a separate bowl, cream 226 grams of softened unsalted butter with 400 grams of granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest, eggs, and buttermilk until well incorporated. Add 150 grams of sourdough discard and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then stir in 38 grams of poppy seeds.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes. As the cake cools, prepare a lemon simple syrup by combining 50 grams of sugar, 59 grams of water, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice over low heat until dissolved. Drizzle this syrup over the cooled cake for extra moisture and flavor. For the finishing touch, whisk 120 grams of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle it over your beautiful cake.
For more delicious lemon-infused treats, check out this Asparagus Lemon Pasta recipe. For additional hints and tips, explore Sourdough Brandon’s Bundt Cake. Enjoy your baking journey and the aromatic results!
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake:
To ensure your Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake turns out moist and flavorful, follow these essential tips. First, use active sourdough starter; it enhances the cake’s texture and adds a subtle tang. Next, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to promote proper mixing and integration of ingredients.
Additionally, measure your flour accurately by scooping it into your measuring cup and leveling it with a knife. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake. Don’t forget to fold in the poppy seeds gently—this preserves their crunchiness throughout the batter.
Finally, for extra lemony goodness, consider making a simple lemon glaze to drizzle over your cake once it cools. This will amplify the flavor and give it a beautiful finish. If you’re interested in more delightful desserts, check out the Blackberry Upside Down Cake, which offers a contrasting flavor profile that’s equally scrumptious!
Serving Suggestions for Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake:
Enjoying a slice of Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake can be enhanced with a few creative serving suggestions. Pair this delightful cake with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a zesty lemon iced tea for a cheerful afternoon treat. The bright citrus notes complement the cake’s moist texture wonderfully.
For an extra touch, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the bundt, allowing it to soak slightly into the cake. You could also serve the cake alongside a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. If you have any leftovers, consider using them in a twist on traditional recipes, such as layered cornbread cake, where the sourdough adds depth and complexity. The unique flavors of the Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake truly shine when paired with fresh fruit like berries or a mixed fruit salad, elevating your dessert experience.
Storage Tips for Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake:
To preserve the freshness of your Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. If you’re in the mood for another delightful treat, consider trying these strawberry cheesecake overnight oats for a refreshing breakfast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake unique?
The inclusion of sourdough starter in this cake adds depth and complexity to its flavor, enhancing the lemony notes and creating a delightful texture. The poppy seeds offer a subtle crunch, making each slice a harmonious blend of taste and texture.
Can I substitute the lemon in the Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can use orange zest and juice instead of lemon, resulting in a zesty orange poppy seed cake that’s equally enchanting.
How do I store the Bundt cake?
To preserve freshness, store your sourdough cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for longer-lasting enjoyment.
Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and moisture levels. It’s best to combine whole wheat with all-purpose flour for a balanced outcome.
What are some add-ins for Sourdough Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake?
You can enhance this cake by adding blueberries or chopped nuts. Consider pairing it with a cream cheese glaze for an extra flavor kick, akin to those seen in delightful creations like the Blackberry Upside Down Cake.
How long does it take to bake the cake?
Typically, this moist lemon poppy seed Bundt cake will need about 50-60 minutes in the oven. It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.