Name: Lavender Cake: A Delicate Floral Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk (infused with 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: purple food coloring; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp milk; Drop of vanilla extract

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There’s something timeless about baking with flowers. My grandmother always kept a small tin of dried lavender tucked in her pantry, and every so often she would stir it into sugar or steep it in milk to bring a touch of spring into her cakes. This Lavender Cake: A Delicate Floral Delight captures that same magic light, airy, and kissed with floral notes that feel like sunshine on a warm day. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for celebrations or a quiet afternoon tea.

✨ This is one recipe you’ll definitely want to save – Pin it now for later!

Why You’ll Love This Lavender Cake

🌸 Elegant & Unique – Delicate floral flavor sets it apart.
🧁 Beginner-Friendly – Simple steps anyone can follow.
☕ Versatile – Serve for tea, brunch, or dessert.
🎂 Beautiful Presentation – Naturally gorgeous with a soft pastel hue.
👩‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly – Mild enough to delight both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

You won’t need a professional bakery setup just a few basics:

Stand mixer or hand mixer – for whipping butter and sugar to fluffy perfection.
Cake pans or Bundt pan – depending on your presentation choice.
Fine mesh strainer – to sift flour for an airy crumb.
Measuring cups & spoons – accuracy matters for floral flavors.
Cooling rack – helps the cake set without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for lightness)
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup whole milk (infused with 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: purple food coloring for a soft lavender hue
Icing: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2–3 tbsp milk + drop of vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your chosen pan.
Heat milk in a small saucepan until warm, stir in dried lavender, cover, and steep 10 minutes. Strain and let cool.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
Alternate adding dry mixture and lavender milk into wet mixture, beginning and ending with dry.
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 30–35 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely on a rack. Drizzle with icing before serving.

How to Serve Lavender Cake

🍵 Pair with hot tea for a cozy afternoon break.
🎂 Use as a birthday cake with floral decorations.
🍓 Top with fresh berries and whipped cream.
🥂 Slice thin for elegant brunch gatherings.
🍯 Serve with honey drizzle for a rustic finish.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use culinary-grade lavender only (ornamental lavender is too strong).
Don’t over-steep lavender milk 10 minutes is ideal.
Always sift flour for an airy, light sponge.
Add food coloring sparingly less is more.
Chill the cake before icing for clean slices.

Best Pairings / Side Dishes

This delicate floral cake pairs wonderfully with refreshing sides like a Dreamy Orange Creamsicle Cake for brunch or a simple fruit compote. You can also enjoy it alongside a cozy creamy beef pasta dinner for a sweet finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using too much lavender it can taste soapy.
Skipping the straining step lavender buds left in can overpower.
Overmixing batter leads to a dense cake.
Baking at too high a temp the outside browns too fast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 2 days.
Fridge: Keeps well for 5 days; bring to room temp before serving.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months.
To refresh, warm a slice in the microwave for 10 seconds.

FAQs

What does lavender cake taste like?

Lavender cake has a gentle floral flavor, slightly sweet and calming, similar to chamomile with a hint of vanilla.

Can I use lavender oil instead of dried lavender?

Yes, but only food-grade lavender oil. Use sparingly 1–2 drops are enough.

How do I keep my lavender cake moist?

Don’t overbake and store it in an airtight container. Adding an extra spoonful of sour cream to the batter also helps.

Can I make lavender cupcakes with this recipe?

Absolutely! Divide batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes.

Final Thoughts (Natalie’s Voice)

Baking a Lavender Cake: A Delicate Floral Delight feels like bottling up a spring afternoon and sharing it with loved ones. The floral aroma, the soft crumb, and the joy it brings around the table make it a recipe worth keeping close. If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments – I love hearing your stories and kitchen wins!