Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe

Indulge in the delightful combination of juicy blackberries and the subtle floral hint of lavender with this irresistible Blackberry Lavender Cake recipe. This cake is the perfect balance of sweet, fruity, and fragrant, making it an ideal dessert for special occasions, afternoon tea, or even a casual family get-together. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique and mouthwatering dessert, then this recipe is a must-try! Read through the entire article for detailed instructions, tips, and variations to make this cake an absolute success.

this Recipe

What Is a Blackberry Lavender Cake?

A Blackberry Lavender Cake is a unique and refreshing dessert that brings together the tartness of fresh blackberries and the aromatic essence of lavender. This cake is typically made with a moist vanilla or lemon base, with blackberries folded into the batter and lavender added for an unexpected but delightful flavor twist. The cake is often frosted with cream cheese or buttercream frosting and can be garnished with additional blackberries, lavender buds, or even a blackberry lavender compote for extra flair. The combination of sweet and floral makes this cake not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ingredients List for Blackberry Lavender Cake

To make a delightful Blackberry Lavender Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients for the cake base:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds (culinary grade)
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 ½ cups fresh blackberries (lightly tossed in flour)

These ingredients create a fluffy, moist cake with just the right amount of sweetness and floral aroma.

Ingredients List for the Frosting

No Blackberry Lavender Cake is complete without a decadent frosting to complement the flavors of the cake. For the frosting, you will need:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for consistency)
• ½ cup blackberry puree (strained to remove seeds)
• 1 teaspoon lavender extract or ¼ teaspoon lavender buds (optional, for added floral flavor)

The frosting is rich and creamy, with a lovely balance of tanginess from the cream cheese and sweetness from the powdered sugar. The blackberry puree adds a natural hue and fruity flavor to the frosting, while the lavender extract or buds provide a subtle floral note.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Blackberry Lavender Cake recipe is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can consider if you need to adjust for dietary preferences or want to mix things up:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoon water per egg), and substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk.
• Honey-Lavender Twist: Add 2 tablespoon of honey to the cake batter to deepen the floral and sweet profile.
• Citrus Boost: Incorporate 1 tablespoon lemon zest into the cake batter for a zesty, bright flavor that complements the lavender and blackberries.
• Alternative Frosting: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a simple vanilla buttercream or a whipped cream frosting for a lighter finish.
• Extra Berry Punch: Feel free to fold in raspberries or blueberries along with the blackberries for a mixed berry variation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's get down to baking this delightful Blackberry Lavender Cake! Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best results.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). You can use an electric mixer on medium speed for this.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and dried lavender buds.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
6. Fold in the Blackberries: Toss the fresh blackberries lightly in flour (this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom). Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula.
7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Cook Blackberry Lavender Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract, blackberry puree, and lavender extract (if using). If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoon of heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
2. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
3. Decorate: Use extra blackberries, a sprinkle of lavender buds, or a drizzle of blackberry compote to garnish the cake. You can also pipe extra frosting around the edges for a more decorative finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing the cake batter can lead to a dense and tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Tossing the Berries in Flour: Failing to toss the blackberries in flour before folding them into the batter can cause them to sink to the bottom of the cake.
• Using Too Much Lavender: Lavender is potent, and too much can make your cake taste soapy or overpowering. Stick to the recommended amount for the best balance.
• Frosting a Warm Cake: Always ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off the cake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to making your Blackberry Lavender Cake truly shine. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your cake:

• Serve at Room Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, serve the cake at room temperature. The frosting will soften, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
• Garnish with Fresh Lavender and Berries: Garnish the top of the cake with a few sprigs of fresh lavender and a handful of blackberries for a natural, elegant look.
• Pair with a Light Beverage: This cake pairs wonderfully with herbal teas, especially lavender or chamomile, as well as sparkling water or lemonade.

How to Serve Blackberry Lavender Cake

When it’s time to serve the Blackberry Lavender Cake, consider cutting thin slices for guests, as the cake is rich and flavorful. A drizzle of blackberry sauce on the plate can elevate the presentation, or you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Blackberry Lavender Cake

For a stunning visual presentation, you can:

• Top with Edible Flowers: Use edible flowers such as pansies or violets to enhance the cake’s floral theme.
• Rustic Look: Leave the frosting semi-naked (thinly spread), exposing the edges of the cake layers for a rustic, artisanal look.
• Layered Drip Effect: Drizzle a blackberry compote down the sides of the cake for a drip effect that looks both elegant and mouthwatering.

Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh, Ripe Blackberries: Fresh blackberries give the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid.
• Store Properly: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to a month. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use lavender essential oil in this recipe?
A: No, it’s not recommended to use lavender essential oil for cooking, as it can be too strong and may not be safe for consumption. Always use culinary-grade dried lavender or lavender extract.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Frost the cake just before serving for best results.

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Blackberry Lavender Cake is a showstopper with its perfect blend of fruity and floral flavors. It’s ideal for any special occasion or just a fun baking project to try at home. Whether you're serving it at a dinner party, a birthday celebration, or a casual afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress. Follow the steps, avoid common mistakes, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation! Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful dessert!

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