Name: Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 1.5 cups Granulated sugar (Reduce for a less sweet cake.); 2 teaspoons Baking powder (Ensure freshness for optimal results.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Can be replaced with a lower-sodium alternative.); 1 cup Butter (unsalted) (Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); 3 large Eggs (Use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.); 1 cup Milk (Almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free choice.); 2 tablespoons Dried lavender (Always use culinary-grade lavender.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste.); 1 cup Water; 1 cup Sugar (Adjust to taste for desired sweetness.); 1 cup Butter (unsalted) (Can substitute with vegan butter.); 4 cups Powdered sugar (Sifting ensures smoothness.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Use dairy-free alternatives if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Lavender extract (Enhances the overall lavender flavor.)

The air is filled with the gentle scent of blooming lavender, reminding me of peaceful afternoons spent tending to my garden. Today, I’m excited to share my Elegant Lavender Cake with Dreamy Lavender Buttercream Frosting. This delightful lavender cake recipe celebrates the enchanting floral flavor of lavender, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Not only is it a stunning centerpiece that will captivate your guests, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, even for those just beginning their baking journey. With layers brushed in fragrant lavender syrup and topped with a velvety buttercream, this cake embodies elegance in every slice. Plus, the subtle floral notes are bound to lift your spirits and transport you to a sunny spring day. Are you ready to awaken your inner pastry chef and impress with this elegant delight? Let’s dive into the recipe together!

Why is Lavender Cake So Special?

Floral Elegance: This cake beautifully captures the essence of blooming lavender, turning a simple dessert into an aromatic experience.
Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this lavender cake recipe with lavender buttercream frosting ensures delightful results with minimal effort.
Versatile Options: From adding zingy lemon curd to using alternative flours, you can customize this cake to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or brunch, this cake is a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Delightful Pairings: Serve your cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or garnish with edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
Experience why this recipe is a crowd favorite and perfect for a cozy gathering or a passionate baking session!

Lavender Cake Ingredients

• Full of floral charm for baking delight!

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Granulated sugar – Sweetness to balance the floral notes; reduce for a less sweet cake.
Baking powder – A leavening agent for the cake’s rise; ensure freshness for optimal results.
Salt – Enhances flavors; can be replaced with a lower-sodium alternative.
Butter (unsalted) – Adds richness and moisture; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
Eggs – Binds the cake and adds moisture; use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.
Milk – Contributes moisture; almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free choice.
Dried lavender – Infuses the cake with floral flavor; always use culinary-grade lavender.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile; pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste.

For the Simple Syrup

Water – Combined with sugar to create a fragrant lavender syrup.
Sugar – Sweetens the syrup; adjust to taste for desired sweetness.

For the Buttercream Frosting

Butter (unsalted) – Creates a lush and creamy texture; can substitute with vegan butter.
Powdered sugar – Sweetness and structure for the frosting; sifting ensures smoothness.
Milk – Adjusts consistency; use dairy-free alternatives if necessary.
Lavender extract – Adds an extra boost of floral flavor; enhances the overall lavender cake recipe with lavender buttercream frosting.

Channel your inner pastry chef and get ready to create this beautiful Lavender Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), filling your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans with butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This initial preparation sets the stage for your Lavender Cake, ensuring beautifully even layers that rise perfectly.

Step 2: Make Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Finally, fold in dried lavender for that enchanting floral flavor.

Step 3: Bake Layers
Pour the luscious lavender cake batter evenly into your prepared pans, smoothing the tops. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, revealing a golden-brown top.

Step 4: Prepare Simple Syrup
While the cakes cool, grab a saucepan and bring the water and sugar to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves, then add a pinch of dried lavender and let it steep for 20 minutes. Strain the syrup into a bowl, discarding the lavender, creating a fragrant infusion that will enhance your Lavender Cake.

Step 5: Make Buttercream
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined, then increase to high speed for 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Pour in the milk and lavender extract, stirring until smooth and spreadable, achieving the perfect consistency for your Lavender Buttercream Frosting.

Step 6: Assemble Cake
Take the cooled cake layers and place one on a serving plate. Brush generously with lavender simple syrup to add moisture and aroma. Spread a layer of lavender buttercream between the two cakes and gently stack the second layer on top. Then, spread the remaining buttercream over the entire cake, creating a smooth and inviting finish.

Step 7: Decorate
Unleash your creativity! Use piping techniques to add decorative swirls and flowers with the lavender buttercream. Finish by garnishing with edible flowers and fresh lavender sprigs for an elegant touch. Your Lavender Cake is now visually stunning and fragrant, ready to charm your guests at any celebration or delightful afternoon tea.

Storage Tips for Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Room Temperature: Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake in a sealed container for up to a week. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its enchanting lavender flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow to reach room temperature before serving to experience the full richness of the lavender buttercream.

Lavender Cake Recipe Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delectable lavender cake to suit your preferences!

Citrus Twist: Replace dried lavender with zest from one lemon for a refreshing, zesty flavor that brightens each bite.
Almond Flour: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour, adding a nutty profile that supports the floral notes beautifully.
Lemon Curd Layer: Consider adding a layer of homemade lemon curd between the cake layers for a delightful tart contrast to the sweetness.
Honey Sweetener: Use honey instead of granulated sugar for a more floral sweetness and gentle sticky richness in your cake.
Flavored Buttercream: Infuse your buttercream with different extracts, like vanilla or almond, to lend a unique taste that complements lavender.
Chai Spices: Sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy twist that pairs beautifully with lavender.
Adjust Sweetness: Lower the sugar to taste for a less indulgent version, making this cake guilt-free for any occasion.
Vegan Variation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk for a delightful vegan lavender cake experience. If you’re looking for something hearty and colorful, try serving it alongside a plate of honey garlic tofu or a wild blueberry coffee cake to round out your meal nicely!

What to Serve with Lavender Cake with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this floral delight with complementary dishes that enhance its delicate flavor.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or blueberries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet lavender cake.
Lemon Sorbet: The citrus notes in lemon sorbet cleanse the palate, perfectly balancing the lush lavender buttercream.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a rich, creamy texture, making every bite blissfully indulgent.
Herbal Tea: A calming cup of chamomile or peppermint tea will harmonize beautifully, enhancing the floral notes in your cake.
Almond Biscotti: The nutty crunch of almond biscotti offers a delightful texture contrast and complements the cake’s floral essence.
Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like fluffiness, enhancing the overall elegance of your cake presentation.
Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink mirrors the bright notes of lavender while providing a festive touch.
Lavender-Infused Simple Syrup: Drizzle extra syrup over each slice for an added burst of flavor, making each serving unforgettable.
Edible Flowers: Garnishing your serving plate with edible flowers not only elevates the aesthetic but enhances the floral experience.

Enjoy these pairings alongside your Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting for a truly enchanting meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Lavender Cake with Lavender Buttercream delights are perfect for busy home cooks! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain moisture and freshness. The lavender simple syrup can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, ready to use when assembling your cake. When it’s time to enjoy, just whip up the lavender buttercream frosting (which can also be made up to 3 days ahead and kept in an airtight container), and frost your cake for stunning, restaurant-quality results, all with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Lavender Cake Recipe

Perfect Ingredients: Use high-quality culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor in your lavender cake recipe with lavender buttercream frosting. Avoid using decorative lavender, as it may not be edible.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a stable emulsion, resulting in a moist and fluffy cake.
Don’t Overmix: Avoid the temptation to overmix your batter. Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet ensures your lavender cake remains light and tender, rather than dense.
Chill the Buttercream: If your buttercream is too soft to pipe, chill it for a short while. This will help you achieve those beautiful decorating swirls with your lavender buttercream frosting.
Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary. Keep an eye on your cake layers, checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
Storage Tips: If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for a week. This helps maintain its delightful moisture!

Lavender Cake with Lavender Buttercream Recipe FAQs

How should I select dried lavender for this recipe?
Absolutely! Always use culinary-grade lavender for baking to ensure it’s safe to eat and packed with flavor. You can find it at specialty food stores or online. Avoid decorative lavender, as it may not be edible and can contain chemicals.

What is the best way to store Lavender Cake?
For optimal freshness, store your Lavender Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigeration can help, but it should be sealed well to prevent drying out, lasting up to a week. If you’d like to enjoy it later, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Lavender Cake? What’s the process?
Absolutely, you can freeze your Lavender Cake! After the cake has completely cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, so you can easily track freshness. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the layers in the fridge overnight and bring them to room temperature before frosting.

What should I do if my cake layers are dense or dry?
Very! If your cake is dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter. Always fold the dry ingredients in gently until just combined. If it’s dry, you may have overbaked it; check for doneness a few minutes early next time. You can also brush additional lavender syrup between layers for an extra moisture boost!

Are there any dietary considerations with this cake?
Certainly! If you or your guests have allergies, this Lavender Cake can be vegan-friendly by replacing eggs with flax eggs and using plant-based milk and butter. Additionally, for gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This ensures everyone can enjoy a delicious slice without worry!