Orange-Poppy Seed-Zucchini Cake

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup freshly grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup poppy seeds

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
4. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the zucchini, orange juice, and poppy seeds until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Zucchini is a member of the squash family.
• Poppy seeds are a great source of essential minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
• Orange juice is a great source of vitamin C.