Old-Fashioned Poppy Seed Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for a light texture
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder to provide gentle rise
• ½ teaspoon baking soda for even leavening
• ¼ teaspoon salt to balance sweetness
• ¾ cup granulated sugar, finely measured
• ¾ cup poppy seeds, lightly toasted for enhanced flavor
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature for better mixing
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for aromatic depth
• 1 cup sour cream to add moisture and tender crumb
• ¼ cup milk (whole or 2%) to gently loosen the batter