Little French Cakes with Poppy Seeds
Introduction:
Indulge in the charm of French patisserie with these delightful little cakes, delicately infused with poppy seeds. Perfect for an afternoon tea or as a light dessert, these cakes bring together the subtle nuttiness of poppy seeds and the rich, buttery texture that is characteristic of French baking. These mini treats are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring that you can bring a touch of Parisian elegance to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or small cake molds with butter or line them with paper liners.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the tender crumb typical of French cakes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
- Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this could make the cakes tough.
- Fill the Molds: Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each one about 3/4 full. This will allow the cakes to rise without overflowing.
- Bake: Place the molds in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean. The cakes should be lightly golden on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cakes with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Serving Suggestions:
These little French cakes are perfect when served with a cup of coffee or tea. They can also be paired with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you want to elevate them further, consider drizzling the cakes with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Storage:
Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. These cakes also freeze well, making them a convenient option for make-ahead baking.
Conclusion:
These little French cakes with poppy seeds are a delightful way to enjoy the elegance of French baking in a manageable, bite-sized form. Their light, buttery texture combined with the crunch of poppy seeds makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a simple snack or serving them at a gathering, these cakes are sure to impress with their delicate flavor and beautiful presentation.
