Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Experience the delicate floral charm of Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting. This stunningly moist cake, topped with dreamy lavender buttercream and brushed with a fragrant lavender simple syrup, is perfect for special occasions or simply to brighten your day. Its unique flavor profile and elegant presentation make it a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicate Flavor: The infusion of lavender creates a subtle yet captivating taste that stands out in any dessert spread.
• Versatile Occasion Use: Whether for birthdays, tea parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this cake fits perfectly into various celebrations.
• Moist and Flavorful: The buttermilk adds moisture while the lavender enhances the cake’s flavor profile, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
• Easy to Bake: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this impressive cake without stress.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors and beautiful frosting make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any event.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Cake pans (8-inch round)
• Wire rack
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a fluffy batter by thoroughly creaming butter and sugar together.
• Cake pans: Using the right size ensures even baking and the perfect shape for stacking your cakes.
• Wire rack: Cooling the cakes on a wire rack allows air to circulate, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1½ Sticks (¾ Cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ Cups granulated sugar
• 2 Large whole eggs, room temperature
• 4 Large egg yolks, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 Cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1 Tbsp dried culinary lavender, finely crushed
• ¾ tsp salt
• 1¼ Cup buttermilk, room temperature

For the Lavender Simple Syrup

• ⅓ Cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ Cup water
• 2 Tbsp dried culinary lavender

For the Lavender Buttercream Frosting

• ½ Cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2⅓ Cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 Tbsp cooled lavender simple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This step ensures your cakes release easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 Cups all-purpose flour
2. 4 tsp baking powder
3. 1 Tbsp finely crushed dried culinary lavender
4. ¾ tsp salt

Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream:
1. 1½ Sticks (¾ Cup) softened unsalted butter
2. 1½ Cups granulated sugar

Beat until light and fluffy. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add in the egg yolks and 2 tsp vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add dry ingredients and 1¼ Cup buttermilk to the wet ingredients:
– Start with dry ingredients.
– Mix on low speed until just combined; do not overmix!

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make Lavender Simple Syrup

While cakes bake or cool, combine:
1. ⅓ Cup granulated sugar
2. ⅓ Cup water
3. 2 Tbsp dried culinary lavender

Simmer over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, steep for about 15-20 minutes, then strain out lavender buds. Cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Beat:
– ½ Cup softened unsalted butter until creamy.
Gradually beat in:
– 2⅓ Cups sifted powdered sugar until smooth.
Add:
– 2 Tbsp cooled lavender simple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Beat until light and fluffy.

Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Serve Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Serving Lavender Cake with Lavender Buttercream Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual afternoon tea, this cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of color and tartness that complements the floral notes of the cake.

Serve with Herbal Tea

• A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea enhances the delicate flavors of the cake and creates a soothing experience.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the moistness of the cake while allowing its flavors to shine.

Add a Lemon Drizzle

• A simple lemon glaze drizzled over each slice adds a zesty contrast, making every bite refreshing and delightful.

How to Perfect Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

To achieve the best Lavender Cake with Lavender Buttercream Frosting, consider these helpful tips for perfect results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients.
• Measure accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to maintain the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Cool completely: Let cakes cool fully before frosting; this prevents melting your buttercream and ensures neat slices.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Lavender Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that cleanses the palate and complements the lavender flavor beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and sweetness to counterbalance the richness of the cake.
3. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy biscuits add a delightful contrast in texture while their nutty flavor pairs well with lavender.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or mascarpone enhance the floral notes of lavender while providing a savory balance.
5. Chocolate Mousse: The rich creaminess of chocolate mousse creates an indulgent dessert pairing, perfect for special occasions.
6. Cucumber Sandwiches: Light cucumber sandwiches offer a refreshing bite that complements the sweetness of the cake without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a lavender cake can be delightful, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using dried lavender incorrectly: Ensure you use culinary-grade lavender for flavor. Non-culinary lavender can taste bitter and unpleasant.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

• Skipping the cooling time: If you frost the cake while it’s warm, the frosting will melt. Always let your cakes cool completely before frosting them.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use weight measurements where possible or ensure volume measurements are leveled off for best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend better, leading to a smoother batter. Always let eggs and buttermilk come to room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds; check if warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, covered, until warmed; this keeps it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

You can use fresh lavender, but you’ll need more as the flavor is milder. Make sure it’s culinary grade!

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes as a substitute for buttermilk.

How long does the buttercream frosting last?

Lavender buttercream frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to one week if kept in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting offers a unique floral flavor that is both refreshing and elegant. Perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying at home, this recipe is versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding different flavors or toppings!