Ingredients

1/2 cup poppy seed
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup soft butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 cups flour ( sifted )
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 egg whites
4 egg yolks
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1/2 cups milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons rum
1 tablespoon water
1/2 cup hazelnuts ( ground )
Poppy seed cake, also known as 'valmuefrøkage' in Denmark, is a traditional Danish cake that is baked for special occasions or holidays. The cake is made with a base of butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and poppy seeds and is enriched with a topping made of hazelnuts, powdered sugar, rum, and water. Poppy seeds contribute to the unique texture and flavor of the cake, while the hazelnuts provide a crunchy, nutty topping that balances the sweetness of the glaze. This cake is a perfect ode to Denmark's love for all things sweet, flavorful, and indulgent.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2.Combine the poppy seeds, 1 cup of milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl and set aside for 30 minutes.
3.In a large bowl, cream the butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until fluffy.
4.Sift the flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt together and fold into the butter mixture.
5.Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6.Beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until pale and creamy, then stir in the poppy seed mixture.
7.Gradually fold the egg whites into the butter mixture, then fold in the egg yolk mixture.
8.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9.Toast 1/2 cup of hazelnuts until fragrant, then chop them finely and set aside.
10.In a saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch and 3/4 cup of milk until smooth, then whisk in the remaining milk and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
11.Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils.
12.Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, the powdered sugar, the rum, the water and the chopped hazelnuts.
13.Immediately spread the glaze over the warm cake.

PROS

This cake is rich and flavorful, with a crunchy nutty topping and a moist crumb.

The poppy seeds provide a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from other cakes.

It is perfect for serving at a special occasion or as a dessert for a dinner party.

CONS

This cake has a high sugar and fat content, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The preparation process is slightly complicated compared to other cakes, which might discourage beginner bakers.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Poppy seeds have numerous health benefits such as relieving stress and anxiety, aiding digestion and reducing inflammation in the body.
Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support brain function, promote heart health and prevent chronic diseases.
However, this cake should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar and fat content.

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