Lemon Lavender Summer Cake

Lemon Lavender Summer Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the essence of summer right to your table. This cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with bright flavors. The combination of lemon and lavender creates a refreshing treat perfect for warm days. You can enjoy it at a picnic, a garden party, or simply as a sweet ending to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this Lemon Lavender Summer Cake for many reasons. First, it is easy to make. Even if you are not an experienced baker, you will find the steps straightforward. Second, the flavor is amazing. The bright taste of lemon pairs perfectly with the floral notes of lavender. This combination makes for a soft and delicious cake that everyone will enjoy. Third, this cake is versatile. You can serve it plain or dress it up with icing or fresh fruit. Finally, it looks beautiful on any table. The light color and lovely aroma will draw people in, making it a great centerpiece for your occasions.

HOW TO MAKE Lemon Lavender Summer Cake

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp culinary lavender (food-grade)
• ⅓ cup whole milk

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch round cake pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. Cream the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and culinary lavender.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture while alternating with milk until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before serving.

HOW TO SERVE Lemon Lavender Summer Cake

This cake is best served at room temperature. You can slice it into wedges for individual servings. For an extra special touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. You could also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries or lemon slices can be delightful garnishes, adding color and flavor to the plate.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Lemon Lavender Summer Cake

If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

There are many ways to enjoy your Lemon Lavender Summer Cake. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve slices with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, to add sweetness and color.
• Pair it with herbal tea or lemonade for a refreshing snack on a warm day.
• Offer it at brunch alongside yogurt and granola for a delightful combination.
• Add a light icing on top made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for an extra sweet touch.

VARIATIONS

You can easily change this recipe to create your own twist:

• Add nuts: Chopped almonds or pistachios can add crunch and flavor.
• Use other citrus fruits: Instead of lemon, you can try orange or lime zest and juice for different flavors.
• Different herbs: Substitute lavender with other herbs like rosemary or mint for a unique taste.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I use dried lavender instead of culinary lavender?
No, dried lavender should be food-grade and specifically labeled as such. Regular dried lavender may not be safe for consumption.

2. How can I tell if my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until you are ready to serve.

4. Is it okay to use store-bought lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice offers the best flavor, you can use store-bought lemon juice in a pinch.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Lemon Lavender Summer Cake

To save time, you can prepare some elements of the cake in advance. Here are some tips:

• Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out your dry ingredients the night before and store them in a bowl.
• Make the batter in advance: You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the pan.
• Cool and store: Bake the cake the day before your event. Once it is cool, wrap it tightly and store it, un-frosted, until you are ready to serve.

With these steps, you can enjoy a tasty Lemon Lavender Summer Cake with ease and delight. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

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