Best Sesame 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.

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData Central, in-house testingMethodology

Can I make a cake without sesame seeds?

Yes. Start with Poppy Seeds at 1:1, then adjust liquid or bake time in small steps after a test batch.

Top Recommendation

Poppy Seeds

Use 1:1

Different flavour. Works for visual contrast on breads and bagels.

View full adjustment notes →

How much does 1 cup of sesame seeds weigh?

On CupOrGram, 1 cup of sesame seeds is treated as 144 grams. Use the conversion page if you want the original ingredient weight before choosing a substitute.

Sesame Seeds cups to grams →

Common Questions for Cakes

Can I make a cake without sesame seeds?

Yes. Start with Poppy Seeds at 1:1. Different flavour. Works for visual contrast on breads and bagels.

What can I use instead of sesame seeds for cake?

Start with Poppy Seeds (1:1) for the closest match.

Best sesame seeds substitute for cake?

Poppy Seeds is the top pick here. Use 1:1 and adjust only after a test bake.

How do I substitute sesame seeds in cake batter?

Replace using 1:1, mix as usual, then tune liquid and bake time in small steps if needed.

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