Lavender Cake

About Lavender Cake 

Lavender Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies elegance and whimsy, making it a favorite for tea parties, bridal showers, and other special occasions. This cake intricately blends the floral notes of lavender with the sweetness of vanilla, creating a medley of flavors that dance on the palate. The delicate aroma of lavender elevates the experience, offering a slice of serenity with each bite. The cake’s soft, moist texture is perfectly complemented by the rich, creamy Lavender Buttercream Frosting, whose vibrant hue adds a charming visual appeal.

What You’ll Need for Lavender Cake 

Complete Ingredients List

• For the Lavender Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

• For the Lavender Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons lavender extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Edible flowers (for decoration, optional)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Flour: Substitute gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like erythritol for a lower-sugar cake.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk.
• Flavor Variations: Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist or infuse with honey for added sweetness.

How to Make Lavender Cake 

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and dried lavender until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of the baking powder and floral flavor throughout the cake.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter while alternating with the whole milk. Mix on low speed after each addition until just combined. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavors

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing until the batter is smooth and homogeneous. The acid from the lemon juice will complement the floral tones of the lavender beautifully, balancing the flavors.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased and floured round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Lavender Buttercream Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the lavender buttercream frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well on low speed. Then, add the heavy cream, lavender extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting reaches a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of lavender buttercream frosting on top, then gently place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the entire cake. For an added decorative touch, consider topping the cake with edible flowers or a sprig of fresh lavender.

Serving Suggestions for Lavender Cake

How to Serve Lavender Cake

Serve your Lavender Cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Gently slice the cake using a serrated knife for clean edges. A cake server or large spatula will assist in lifting out each slice without disturbing the layers.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

For complementary flavors, consider serving with freshly brewed Earl Grey tea or a glass of champagne for an elegant affair. A drizzle of honey over the top or a sprinkle of additional dried lavender can enhance the visual appeal and flavor confusion of the cake. For a more indulgent experience, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storing & Preserving Lavender Cake

Best Storage Methods

To maintain freshness, store any leftover Lavender Cake in an airtight container. If kept at room temperature, it can last for about 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, where it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

For reheating, allow the cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. If you desire a slightly warm slice, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. When thawing, avoid letting the cake sit out at room temperature for too long to prevent it from drying out.

Tips for Perfect Lavender Cake

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake; mix until just combined.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in baking—use a kitchen scale for best results.
• Not Using Culinary Lavender: Ensure your lavender is culinary-grade; other types may not be safe for consumption.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: All ingredients should be at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
• Test Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure it is at the correct temperature.
• Decorative Touches: Consider using fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Fun Variations of Lavender Cake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Feel free to experiment with flavor combinations. Incorporate blueberries into the batter or use lemon curd in between layers for a burst of citrus. Almond extract could replace some or all of the vanilla extract for a nutty twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan variant, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and ensure to use plant-based ingredients throughout. For a sugar-free cake, utilize monk fruit sweetener or a combination of erythritol and stevia. Adjust baking times depending on ingredient substitutions, as moisture content may vary.

FAQs

What If My Lavender Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your cake turns out too dry, it might have been overbaked or overmixed. Keep an eye on the baking time toward the end and check with a toothpick. For a cake that doesn’t rise, ensure your baking powder is fresh and properly measured. Lastly, if the frosting is too runny, you can add an additional cup of powdered sugar until it firms up.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes, you can certainly prepare the Lavender Cake a day in advance. Simply store the cooled cake layers in an airtight container. Prepare the buttercream frosting and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to frost the cake. Allow the buttercream to soften at room temperature before spreading it on the cake.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If lavender extract is hard to come by, vanilla extract will substitute acceptably, albeit with a different flavor profile. Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk for a dairy-free option. If you’re out of unsalted butter, you can use margarine or a vegetable shortening for the frosting.

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