Delightful Lavender Cake Recipe with Lavender Buttercream Frosting

If you’re a lavender lover like me, get ready to indulge in the delicate floral notes of lavender with this exquisite lavender cake recipe. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a symphony of lavender-infused goodness that will elevate your dessert game to a whole new level. From fragrant lavender simple syrup brushed on the layers to lavender in the frosting, every bite of this cake is a delightful journey through a lavender field.

Imagine a super moist cake with a tender crumb, topped with a lavender buttercream frosting that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this lavender cake recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their baking repertoire. Get ready to impress your taste buds with the subtle yet enchanting flavors of lavender in every bite.

Ingredients

Creating a delightful lavender cake involves a harmonious blend of carefully chosen ingredients. From the cake layers to the lavender-infused buttercream, the components come together to elevate the lavender experience in each slice.

For the Lavender Cake:

• 1½ Sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ Cups sugar
• 2 Whole eggs
• 4 Egg yolks
• 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 Cups flour
• 4 Teaspoons baking powder
• 1 Tablespoon dried lavender (crushed)
• ¾ Teaspoon salt
• 1¼ Cup buttermilk (regular milk can be substituted)

For the Lavender Simple Syrup:

• ⅓ Cup sugar
• ⅓ Cup water
• 2 Tablespoons dried lavender

For the Lavender Buttercream:

• ½ Cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2⅓ Cups powdered sugar
• 2 Tablespoons lavender simple syrup
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract

These components, when meticulously combined, create a lavender cake that is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in ensuring the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every delightful bite.

Necessary Equipment

For crafting a delightful lavender cake, having the right equipment is essential to ensure a smooth baking and decorating process. Below are the necessary tools you’ll need to create a beautifully adorned lavender cake:

Baking Tools

To start your lavender cake baking journey, you’ll need basic baking tools like measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, an electric mixer (handheld or stand), fine mesh sieve, pastry brush, and 8-inch round cake pans. Additionally, having a cake stand or cake turntable will make decorating your lavender cake a breeze.

Decorating Tools

For decorating your lavender cake, essential tools include piping bags (reusable or disposable), piping tips (Wilton 1A for large decorations and Wilton 1M for rosettes), a bench scraper for smoothing frosting, and an icing spatula. If you choose to add intricate designs like flowers, consider using piping nails, parchment paper squares, and small petal tips for detailed decorations.

Preparation

When preparing a lavender cake, it’s essential to follow the steps carefully to achieve the perfect result. This begins with preparing the baking pans and preheating the oven.

Preheating the Oven and Preparing Pans

Preheat your oven to the ideal temperature of 350°F (177°C) and prepare your cake pans for baking. Ensure your 8-inch pans are properly greased and lined with parchment paper for easy cake release. This step sets the stage for baking a perfect lavender cake with a moist and flavorful crumb.

Instructions

In crafting a delectable lavender cake, the journey involves making the lavender cake batter, baking the cake layers, creating the lavender simple syrup, and preparing the lavender buttercream.

Making the Lavender Cake Batter

1. Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the whole eggs one at a time, followed by the egg yolks and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, crushed dried lavender, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – do not overmix.

Baking the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 8-inch cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven (350°F / 177°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Creating the Lavender Simple Syrup

1. Combine the sugar, water, and dried lavender in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let the lavender steep in the syrup for about 15-20 minutes.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds. Let it cool completely.

Preparing the Lavender Buttercream

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increase speed and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the cooled lavender simple syrup and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or water at a time; if too thin, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time.

Assembly

After preparing the lavender cake layers and allowing them to cool completely, it’s time to assemble the cake with finesse. Each step is crucial for achieving a stunning and flavorful lavender-infused masterpiece.

Layering the Cake

1. Start by placing one cake layer right-side-up on a plate or cake round. If the cake tops are domed, level them with a serrated knife first.
2. Spread a generous layer of frosting evenly over the cake layer.
3. Add the second cake layer upside down (or leveled side down), ensuring a smooth top surface.
4. Adjust to center the cake layers and ensure a level top.

Applying the Simple Syrup

1. Brush the cooled lavender-infused simple syrup generously over the top of both cake layers before frosting, adding moisture and enhancing the floral flavor. Ensure the syrup is evenly distributed.

Frosting the Cake

1. Begin with a crumb coat: apply a thin layer of frosting all over the cake to seal in the moisture and lock the crumbs.
2. Refrigerate the cake for about 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat before applying the final layer of frosting.
3. Frost the cake generously, covering the top and sides with a thick layer of lavender buttercream.
4. Smooth the frosting using an icing spatula or bench scraper for a polished finish, ready to be served and enjoyed.

Decorating Tips

As I delve into the art of decorating lavender cakes, let me share some valuable tips on enhancing the visual appeal of your creation. Mastering piping techniques and incorporating edible flowers and delicate lavender sprigs can elevate your lavender cake to a stunning and Instagram-worthy masterpiece.

Piping Techniques

When decorating your lavender cake, consider using piping techniques to add intricate designs and beautiful details. From creating floral patterns to elegant swirls, piping allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your cake. Experiment with different piping tips and techniques to achieve the desired look and feel for your lavender cake.

Using Edible Flowers and Lavender Sprigs

To add a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your lavender cake, consider garnishing it with edible flowers and fresh lavender sprigs. Edible flowers not only provide a visually appealing contrast but also offer a unique floral flavor that complements the delicate notes of lavender in the cake. Lavender sprigs can serve as a fragrant and visually stunning garnish, enhancing the overall presentation of your lavender cake. Be sure to select edible flowers that are safe for consumption and thoroughly wash any fresh garnishes before adorning your cake.

Serving and Storage

When it comes to serving and storing your lavender cake, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure the best experience for both you and your guests. Let’s dive into the best ways to serve this delightful dessert and how to store it for optimal freshness.

Best Ways to Serve

Serve your lavender cake with a touch of elegance by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creamy texture of the whipped cream or the chilly contrast of the ice cream complements the floral notes of the lavender, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. For an extra touch of sophistication, garnish each slice with a sprinkle of culinary lavender or a few fresh edible flowers to delight both the eyes and the taste buds.

How to Store

To preserve the freshness of your lavender cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid exposing the cake to direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming too soft. If you need to store the cake for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Before serving refrigerated cake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to restore its soft texture and full flavor.

Freezing and Defrosting Tips

For extended storage, you can freeze your lavender cake for up to 3 months without compromising its taste and quality. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy the cake, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly. Once thawed, you can either serve it at room temperature or warm it up slightly in the microwave for a comforting treat.

By following these serving and storage guidelines, you can savor the delightful flavors of your lavender cake for an extended period without losing its moistness and aroma. Enjoy each slice knowing that it has been carefully preserved to maintain its exceptional taste and quality.

Conclusion

Exploring this lavender cake recipe has been a delightful journey, uncovering the secrets to creating a moist and flavorful treat. From creating a lavender-infused simple syrup to crafting a delicate lavender buttercream, each step adds a touch of elegance to the baking process. Decorating with edible flowers and sprigs elevates the cake’s visual appeal, making it a showstopper at any gathering.

When it comes to serving and storing, simple tips ensure that the lavender cake remains fresh and delicious for days to come. By following these guidelines, one can savor the exquisite flavors of lavender while relishing the delicate texture of this delectable dessert.

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