German Poppy Seed Cake Recipe: Oma's Mohnkuchen

This German poppy seed cake recipe found its way into my hand from a dear German friend, Birgit. She's a master at baking such delicious German treats. 

Poppy seed cake, or Mohnkuchen as it's called in Germany, takes me back to my childhood in the kitchen with my Mutti. The rich, nutty aroma of poppy seeds baking was a sure sign something special was on its way. And since childhood, anything poppy seed has been among my favorite German recipes.

This cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a piece of our heritage. Truly German. So wunderbar.

The History of Poppy Seeds in Germany

Poppy seeds have played a role in German cuisine for hundreds of years, introduced to Europe through trade routes from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions.

Saxony, in particular, became a hub for cultivating poppy plants, thanks to its fertile soil and favorable climate. During the Middle Ages, poppy seeds were used in baking and prized for their medicinal properties.

In the kitchens, poppy seeds were ground to release their rich oils and used in everything from strudels and dumplings to cakes like this one. By the 19th century, poppy seed cakes became a popular offering at festive gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and abundance.

7 Must-Try Poppy Seed Treats Across Germany

Here’s are seven of the most beloved German poppy seed treats:

1. Mohnstrudel (Mohnrolle) – Common in Saxony (Sachsen) and Bavaria (Bayern), this rolled pastry filled with sweet poppy seed filling is a staple at family gatherings.
2. Mohnkuchen mit Streuseln – Particularly popular in Saxony-Anhalt (Sachsen-Anhalt) and Thuringia (Thüringen), this crumb-topped poppy seed cake is a favorite for afternoon coffee.
3. Mohnschnecken – These spiral-shaped poppyseed rolls are a favorite in Berlin and Brandenburg, where bakeries often showcase them as a classic sweet snack.
4. Mohnklöße – Enjoyed in Bavaria and Franconia (Franken), these poppy seed dumplings are a comforting dessert during colder months.
5. Mohnkipferl – Found mainly in southern Germany, especially in Bavaria and Swabia (Schwaben), these crescent-shaped cookies are a holiday treat.
6. Mohnpielen – Traditionally served during Christmas in Lower Silesia (Schlesien) and Upper Lusatia (Oberlausitz), regions with a rich heritage of poppy seed dishes.
7. Mohnzopf – Popular across Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, this braided yeast bread is a Sunday brunch favorite, often seen at festive tables.

Each region has its own way of celebrating the unique flavors of poppy seeds, making these treats a yummy way to experience German traditions.

Why This Cake is Special

This poppy seed cake recipe combines six simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The nutty flavor of poppy seeds pairs amazingly with ground almonds, creating a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect with a cup of coffee (Kaffeeklatsch, anyone?).

It’s a recipe that feels both indulgent and comforting, ideal for serving anytime, but particularly during the holidays. Well, actually, this can be served anytime one fancies something mega lecker. 

This recipe reminds me of the cakes my Mutti used to bake when we were having company. The kitchen would fill with the warm, nutty aroma of poppy seeds as the cake was baking. Each slice is rich, so a little goes a long way!

But, most people don't stop at one slice!

Baking Tips for the German Mohnkuchen

1. Preparing Whole Poppy Seeds: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly ground poppy seeds. You can use a spice grinder or a clean coffee grinder.
2. Whipping Egg Whites: The key to the texture of this cake is properly whipped egg whites. Be sure to fold them gently into the batter to maintain their volume.
3. Springform Pan: Using a springform pan ensures the cake is easy to release after baking. Grease it well using butter or a baking spray.

A Quick Look at How to Make the Mohnkuchen

As with all recipes, it's best to get everything ready before you start. Not just turning on the oven to preheat, but also to prepare the springform pan. Have everything pre-measured and ready to add.

Make sure the butter is at room temperature so that it will cream properly with the sugar. If you forgot to take it out of the fridge, slice the butter into small cubes. Spread them out on a plate, and they’ll soften in about 10–15 minutes.

Alternatively, use a box grater to shred the butter into thin pieces. These should then soften in minutes to be ready to be used.

When you cream the butter and sugar, start at slow speed and blend until the sugar begins to incorporate into the butter.

Increase the speed to medium-high and continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color, fluffy and creamy. This can take about 2–4 minutes.

Then start adding the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well between each addition.

In a separate bowl and with clean beaters, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

When the egg whites are ready, start with gently mixing the poppy seeds into the butter-sugar-egg yolk mixture.

Once the poppy seeds have been added, add the ground almonds. Gently mix the batter until everything has been incorporated.

Gently add about ⅓ of the whipped eggs whites and fold in until mixed. This will lighten the batter and make it easier to add the rest of the egg whites gently.

Fold in the remaining egg whites, using a folding motion until the egg whites are no longer visible.

Once the batter is ready, gently spoon it into the greased spring form pan.

Level the top of the batter and then place in the oven.

Bake for about 50 minutes and check to see if done by inserting a wooden pick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If any batter is still sticking to the pick, then continue baking a further 5–10 minutes. 

Let the cake cool off for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the outside of the cake to make sure it is loosened from the outer ring.

Remove the outer ring and let it cool on a wire rack. 

Once cool, remove the bottom pan and slide onto a cake platter.

Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream on the side is perfection!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.

For something extra special, serve with a drizzle of warm vanilla sauce or a side of fresh berries.

Now, time to make this German Poppy Seed Cake Recipe

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