Poppy Seed Cake

Directions

1. 1
   In a small saucepan, combine the poppy seeds and milk.
2. 2
   Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and allow to rest until cool, about 20 minutes.
3. 3
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a large loaf or tube pan by greasing it with margarine and lightly flouring the inside of the pan.
4. 4
   In bowl of an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, cream together butter or margarine and sugar.
5. 5
   Add egg yolks, vanilla, and poppy seed-milk mixture, and beat until smooth.
6. 6
   Gradually add 2 cups flour, salt and baking powder.
7. 7
   Mix well; remove bowl from mixer and set aside.
8. 8
   Place a clean bowl in mixer, with a whisk attachment, and whisk egg whites until stiff but not dry.
9. 9
   Gently fold into batter.
10. 10
    Scrape into pan, and bake until a knife inserted into the cake comes out clean, about 1 hour.
11. 11
    Cool on a rack.
12. 12
    When cool, dust cake with confectioners sugar.