Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake With Chocolate Ganache Center | Made by Meaghan Moineau
**Title: Dive Into Decadence: Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with a Chocolate Surprise**
**Description:** Discover the perfect blend of zesty lemon and rich chocolate in our Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with Chocolate Ganache Center. This delightful dessert will transport you back to cherished family gatherings, creating new memories with each heavenly bite.
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### A Slice of Nostalgia: Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with Chocolate Ganache Center
There's something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen. It evokes memories of family, laughter, and the joy of sharing a meal together. One such memory that stands out vividly in my mind is the first time my grandmother introduced me to her special Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with Chocolate Ganache Center. This dessert quickly became a family favorite, making appearances at every holiday gathering and special occasion.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon rind
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large egg whites
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, divided into 6 pieces
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Begin by positioning a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 400°F (200°C). Lightly butter six 6-ounce ramekins, dust them with sugar, and place them on a baking sheet.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, lemon rind, and poppy seeds. Set this mixture aside.
3. **Whip Yolks and Sugar:** Using a heavy-duty electric mixer with a wire whip attachment, whip the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and forms a ribbon when the whip is lifted.
4. **Beat Egg Whites:** In a separate, grease-free bowl, use a hand-held electric mixer to whip the egg whites to soft peaks.
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Carefully fold the flour mixture into the yolk and sugar mixture. Add the melted butter and gently mix until combined. Next, fold in the whipped egg whites until the batter is well incorporated.
6. **Fill and Bake:** Fill each prepared ramekin three-quarters full with the batter. Place a 1-ounce piece of chocolate in the center of each ramekin. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cakes are firm.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Cool the cakes on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Gently invert each cake onto a dessert plate and serve warm.
#### A Family Tradition:
I remember vividly the first time I helped my grandmother prepare this cake. The kitchen was a hive of activity, with my siblings and cousins eagerly watching. My grandmother, in her gentle and patient manner, guided us through each step. As we dusted the ramekins with sugar and folded in the egg whites, she shared stories of her own childhood, connecting us to generations past.
The best part, of course, was when we placed the chocolate pieces in the center of each ramekin, knowing that a rich, molten surprise awaited us. As we gathered around the table, the first bite of that warm, citrusy cake with its gooey chocolate center was nothing short of bliss. It was a moment of pure joy, one that tasted of home and love.
#### Difficulty Rating: 5/10
#### Classification: Dessert
This Warm Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with a Chocolate Ganache Center is not only a delightful dessert but also a testament to the power of food in creating lasting memories. Whether you're introducing it to your family for the first time or continuing a cherished tradition, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and create a new memory with this delectable treat.