Spring is the perfect time for light, floral, and citrus-infused desserts, and this Lemon & Lavender Cake is the ultimate showstopper for Easter and beyond. The delightful combination of zesty lemon and fragrant lavender creates a delicate, elegant cake that pairs beautifully with afternoon tea or a festive brunch. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also bursting with flavor, making it a guaranteed hit that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Bright & Refreshing: The tangy lemon perfectly balances the subtle floral notes of lavender, creating a refreshing taste experience.
Moist & Tender: Enjoy a rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth, making each bite a delight.
Perfect for Celebrations: This cake is ideal for special occasions such as Easter, Mother’s Day, or any spring gathering, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can achieve a bakery-worthy result right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Lemon Lavender Cake
For the Cake:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender, finely ground
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
For the Lavender Lemon Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon dried lavender (for garnish)
How to Make Lemon & Lavender Cake
Step 1: Prep & Preheat Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure an easy release after baking. This preparation step is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked cake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a light texture in the final cake. Set the dry mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs & Flavorings Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, vanilla extract, and ground lavender, which will infuse the batter with a delightful aroma and flavor profile.
Step 5: Alternate Dry & Wet Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter in three additions, alternating with the milk and lemon juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense cake.
Step 6: Bake Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing or serving, as this will enhance the flavor and texture.
Making the Lavender Lemon Glaze
Step 1: Mix Ingredients In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Ensure that the consistency is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but still fluid enough to drizzle over the cake easily.
Step 2: Drizzle & Garnish Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully drizzle the prepared glaze over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides for an attractive presentation. To enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of flavor, sprinkle dried lavender over the glaze, creating a beautiful and aromatic finish to your dessert.
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Expert Tips for the Perfect Cake
Use Fresh Lemons: The zest and juice from fresh lemons bring out the best citrus flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the most vibrant results.
Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to ensure a soft, tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which is not what you want for a light cake.
Let It Cool: Make sure the cake is fully cooled before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Pair with Tea: Serving the cake with chamomile or Earl Grey tea creates an elegant pairing, enhancing the delicate flavors of lemon and lavender.
Serving & Storing Lemon Lavender Cake
Serve: This cake is best enjoyed fresh, ideally accompanied by a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Store: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freeze: To preserve the cake for longer, wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving for the best taste.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon & Lavender Cake is a true celebration of spring flavors, capturing the essence of the season in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at an Easter brunch, a garden party, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, it’s a delightful and elegant dessert that everyone will love! The harmonious combination of bright citrus and delicate floral notes creates a standout choice for any occasion, making it not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With its light and airy texture, this cake is perfect for welcoming warmer days and will surely impress your guests with its unique flavor profile.
Categories: Food & Nutrition, Home & Living, Family & Relationships, Gift Guides
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