I don't often post about sweets, but when I do it's because it is a recipe that I love. For this post, not only is it a recipe that I love but also one raising awareness for the Cookies for Kids Cancer that raises money for Pediatric Cancer research. To learn more about the organization and the recipe for Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cornmeal Cake, scroll down for more!
This cake is a flavorful cornmeal base topped with a glaze of grapefruit juice and poppy seed. It's best served with slices of fresh grapefruit on top with a side of hot tea.
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cookies for kids cancer
For the past several years I've participated in a fundraiser called Cookies for Kids Cancer that raises money for Pediatric Cancer research. Last year I made a One Pan Kielbasa and Cabbage recipe that was absolutely delicious. Cancer is the #1 cause of death of children by disease in the U.S. There are 40,000 U.S. children actively battling cancer right now. The National Cancer Institute’s budget for childhood cancer is less than 4%. Cancer has affected so many people, donating to fund research can truly change lives.
Our goal is to raise at least $3000. Because these three companies: OXO, Mediavine and Dixie Crystals have each pledged to match our donations raised through this campaign up to $3000! That means when we raise $1, it turns into $4!
Help us make a difference by donating to Cookies for Kids' Cancer!
What type of cake is Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake
This cake is not your average cake. It’s a cornmeal cake and it falls somewhere in between cornbread and regular cake in terms of consistency. The cornmeal really tastes great with grapefruit and it’s a combo I’m more than willing to try again (who knew it would be a hit!). And the poppy seed not only look cool, but serve to balance out the flavor of the cake so that it’s more than just tart/sweet. And even better? It’s an easy cake to make and frost.
What is the icing on this cake?
The icing on Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake is a simple glazed icing with poppy seeds. I prefer this type of icing for a cornmeal based cake because it is light and offsets the density of the cake. The taste in this frosting also packs a punch and holds up well with the cake. The frosting is made of powdered sugar, grapefruit juice and poppy seeds.
Ingredients Needed
- ¾ Cup Melted Butter
- 1 ½ Cups Flour
- ½ Cup Cornmeal
- 1 ½ Cups Sugar
Frosting
- 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Poppy seeds
- ¼ Cup Grapefruit Juice
- 2 Tsp Baking Powder
- ½ Tsp Salt
- 3 Eggs
- ¼ Cup Grapefruit Juice
- 1 Tbsp Grapefruit Zest
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls
- Wooden Spoon
- 9 Inch Cake Pan
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Storage Tips
This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days (remove any raw grapefruit slices if storing with this method). If you have a warm kitchen or the temperature is hot, cover cake with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Grapefruit Poppy Seed Cake
Equipment
Ingredients
Cake
- ¾ Cup Melted Butter
- 1 ½ Cups Flour
- ½ Cup Cornmeal
- 1 ½ Cups Sugar
- 2 Tsp Baking Powder
- ½ Tsp Salt
- 3 Eggs
- ¼ Cup Grapefruit Juice
- 1 Tbsp Grapefruit Zest
Frosting
- 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Poppy Seeds
- ¼ Cup Grapefruit Juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350.
- Combine flour, cornmeal sugar, baking powder and salt.
- In a separate bowl combine the melted butter, eggs, grapefruit juice and grapefruit zest.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Pour mixture into a 9-inch greased cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cake is cooked through. Let cool on a wire rack.
- To glaze, combine powdered sugar, poppy seeds and grapefruit juice. Spread onto the cake when it has cooled completely. Allow glaze to set and harden. Then slice and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
Biana says
Yum! This cake looks so perfect for spring, love the addition of grapefruit!
Joanne says
Going on the to-bake list! I just made orange-poppy seed waffles, and I was looking for other citrus-poppy seed recipes that have just a touch of sweetness. I'll be following you now on Instagram. Thanks!
Sunena says
I absolutely adore grapefruit! I am always looking for new ways to incorporate it into baking, so thank you so much for this recipe. Can't wait to try it out!
Michelle says
Never thought of adding cornmeal to cake, but this sure looks delicious! Love the grapefruit and poppyseed combination!
Toni says
I seriously love the combination of flavors in this cake! Really satisfying!