What can I use instead of poppy seeds for cake?
Sesame Seeds at 1:1 is the closest match — Different colour and flavour. Works for crunch on top of bagels. If that is unavailable, Chia Seeds (1:1).
Best Poppy Seeds Substitutes for Cakes
Pick substitutes that preserve tenderness, aeration, and even rise in cake batters. Cake structure depends on balanced fat, sugar, and hydration. Wrong swaps can create a dense or dry crumb.
Can I make a cake without poppy seeds?
Yes. Start with Sesame Seeds at 1:1, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.
Top Recommendation
Sesame Seeds
Use 1:1
Different colour and flavour. Works for crunch on top of bagels.
View full adjustment notes →How much does 1 cup of poppy seeds weigh?
On CupOrGram, 1 cup of poppy seeds is treated as 145 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.
Poppy Seeds cups to grams →