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German Orange Poppy Seed Sheet Cake with Plum Butter

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This German Orange Poppy Seed Sheet Cake with Plum Butter is a vibrant, bittersweet dessert layered with zesty citrus, rich poppy seeds, and tangy plum preserves. Perfect for holidays or cozy afternoons, this traditional German cake brings a rustic charm and unforgettable flavor to your dessert table.

Ingredients

  • Cake Base:

    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

    • 1 cup granulated sugar

    • 4 large eggs

    • 2 tsp vanilla extract

    • 1 tbsp finely grated orange zest

    • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour

    • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

    • 1/4 tsp salt

    • 3 tbsp poppy seeds

    • 3/4 cup milk

  • Filling & Topping:

    • 3/4 cup plum butter (Pflaumenmus) or prune jam

    • 1/2 cup orange marmalade or plum jam (for topping)

    • 1 tsp poppy seeds (for garnish)

 

 

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.

  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.

  5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix just until combined.

  6. Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.

  7. Gently layer plum butter over the batter without pressing it in. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the surface.

  8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  9. Allow cake to cool completely. Warm marmalade slightly, then spread it over the top. Sprinkle with poppy seeds.

  10. Chill briefly to set the glaze before slicing and serving.

 

 

Notes

Plum butter gives a traditional touch, but you can try other fruit preserves like fig or apricot for variations. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/german-orange-poppy-seed-sheet-cake-with-plum-butter/