Name: Lavender Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 2 teaspoons lavender extract; A pinch of salt; Edible flowers

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If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels like a fragrant stroll through a blooming garden, this Lavender Cake is your perfect match. This cake harmoniously blends delicate hints of dried lavender with a tender crumb and a luscious lavender-infused frosting. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the senses—the subtle floral notes paired with a whisper of lemon create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving it at a special gathering or simply indulging yourself, this Lavender Cake will quickly become a beloved favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Lavender Cake is a joy because it relies on simple, accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its flavor, texture, and beauty. From buttery richness to floral hints, every component works in harmony to create something truly special.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base of the cake, ensuring a soft, tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to retain moistness during baking.
Dried culinary lavender: Adds the signature floral aroma and flavor subtly throughout the batter.
Baking powder: Acts as a rising agent to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds moisture, richness, and a luscious crumb.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender while giving it a slight creaminess.
Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla extract: Amplifies the cake’s aroma, harmonizing beautifully with lavender.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors, adding a refreshing zing that complements the floral notes.
Powdered sugar (for frosting): Creates a smooth and sweet base for the creamy lavender frosting.
Heavy cream (for frosting): Adds richness and a velvety texture to the frosting.
Lavender extract (for frosting): Intensifies the lavender flavor in the frosting for a delightful floral finish.
Edible flowers (optional): Perfect for decorating, they add a whimsical touch that makes the cake look stunning.

How to Make Lavender Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go. Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and the finely chopped dried lavender. Mixing these first ensures that the lavender is evenly distributed and each bite delivers that lovely floral surprise.

Step 2: Cream the Butter

In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. This step is essential—it traps air and helps create a tender texture that you’ll enjoy in every forkful of the Lavender Cake. A well-creamed butter base leads to moisture and richness in the finished cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter alternately with whole milk. This technique keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can toughen the cake. Mix just until everything blends together, ensuring your Lavender Cake stays delightfully soft.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Mix in the eggs one at a time to allow the batter to absorb them fully, followed by the vanilla extract and fresh lemon juice. The eggs lend structure, while the vanilla and lemon juice give layers of flavor that perfectly complement the lavender’s subtle floral notes.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into two greased and floured round cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell while baking will be heavenly—warm lavender with a hint of vanilla and lemon. Once baked, let the cakes rest for 10 minutes in the pans before turning them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Lavender Frosting

While the cakes cool, whisk together softened butter until creamy. Then gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, lavender extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat the frosting until it’s fluffy and smooth, packed with a vibrant lavender flavor that pairs beautifully with the cake layers.

Step 7: Assemble and Decorate

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer first. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. For a special touch, adorn the finished cake with edible flowers—they create a gorgeous, garden-fresh vibe that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

How to Serve Lavender Cake

Garnishes

Simple yet elegant garnishes elevate a Lavender Cake effortlessly. Fresh edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar bring a delicate visual and aromatic complement to the cake’s flavor. A few sprigs of fresh lavender (untreated, safe for food) on the side can also enhance the presentation.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light sides that won’t overpower its subtle floral profile. Think fresh fruit like berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream with a touch of vanilla or honey. A cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea makes a perfect companion, enhancing the soothing lavender essence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist on tradition, try serving individual Lavender Cake slices in elegant glass trifle cups layered with whipped cream and berries. You can also cut the cake into petite squares for a tea party, or serve with a scoop of lemon or honey ice cream. These presentations not only look fun but also create delightful contrasts of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lavender Cake stays fresh best when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep moist and flavorful for 3 to 4 days, making it a wonderful treat to enjoy over a few days without sacrificing taste or texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a zip-top freezer bag. In the freezer, the layers keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to frost and serve.

Reheating

The best way to enjoy leftover cake is at room temperature so the flavors and frosting shine. If you prefer it slightly warmed, a quick 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave works well—be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the delicate Lavender Cake.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried for this Lavender Cake?

Fresh lavender is more potent and contains more moisture than dried, so it’s best to use dried culinary lavender finely chopped for this recipe to ensure the right balance of flavor without adding extra moisture or bitterness.

What does lavender flavor taste like in a cake?

Lavender imparts a subtle floral, slightly sweet, and herbaceous aroma and taste to the cake, which is uniquely calming and pairs amazingly well with vanilla and lemon notes.

Can I make this cake vegan or gluten-free?

You can adapt the recipe using a gluten-free flour blend and vegan substitutes like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacers. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly, but the lavender flavor will still delight.

Is culinary lavender safe to eat?

Yes, culinary lavender is safe and perfect for baking when you use food-grade, dried lavender specifically meant for cooking. Avoid lavender used for potpourri or decorative purposes as those may be treated with chemicals.

How do I prevent the lavender flavor from being too overpowering?

Using just a tablespoon of dried lavender in the batter and a small amount of lavender extract in the frosting balances the flavor gently. Finely chopping the lavender and not overusing the extract keeps that subtle, inviting floral note without overwhelming the palate.

Final Thoughts

Sharing a Lavender Cake is like sharing a little piece of sunshine and calm wrapped up in a delicious dessert. It’s a cake that feels fancy yet is totally doable for any home baker. The harmony of flavors and the delicate floral charm make it a memorable treat anyone will adore. I wholeheartedly encourage you to bake this Lavender Cake and let its unique magic brighten your day and impress your guests.

Lavender Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This elegant Lavender Cake combines the delicate floral aroma of dried culinary lavender with a moist, tender crumb, layered with a creamy lavender-infused buttercream frosting. Perfect for spring gatherings, bridal showers, or any celebration that calls for a fragrant and beautiful dessert.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and the finely chopped dried culinary lavender. This ensures the dry ingredients are well combined and the lavender is evenly distributed.
Cream Butter and Mix Batter: In a separate bowl, cream the ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the whole milk, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh lemon juice, then mix until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
Pour and Bake: Grease and flour two round cake pans. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Frosting: While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Mix in the heavy cream, lavender extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly.
Decorate: Optionally, decorate the cake with edible flowers for a beautiful, floral presentation perfect for special occasions.

Notes

Use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure the flavor is safe and pleasant.
Finely chop lavender to avoid large, bitter bites in the cake.
Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
Adjust sugar in frosting to taste if a sweeter or less sweet frosting is preferred.
Edible flowers should be pesticide-free and safe for consumption.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American