Honey Cake Lavender Buttercream
Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Recipes
Indulge in the delightful combination of honey and lavender in this luxurious cake topped with a creamy buttercream frosting.
This Honey Cake with Lavender Buttercream is a unique dessert that brings together the floral notes of lavender and the sweetness of honey. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful afternoon treat!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The aromatic blend of honey and lavender creates a unique flavor profile.
- The buttercream is light, fluffy, and bursting with floral goodness.
- This cake is perfect for impressing guests at any celebration.
The Harmony of Honey and Lavender
Honey and lavender are two ingredients that not only complement each other beautifully but also bring a delightful aroma and rich flavor to baked goods. Honey, with its natural sweetness and floral undertones, pairs perfectly with the light, fragrant essence of lavender. This combination not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes a sense of calm and relaxation, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a cozy afternoon tea.
In this Honey Cake with Lavender Buttercream, the honey adds moisture and tenderness to the cake, while the dried lavender infuses each bite with a subtle floral note. Together, they create a dessert that is both sophisticated and comforting, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, celebrations, or simply to enjoy at home.
Perfecting Your Baking Techniques
Baking is as much a science as it is an art, and understanding a few key techniques can significantly elevate your cake-making skills. Start by ensuring all your ingredients are at room temperature, as this allows for better mixing and a fluffier texture. When creaming butter and sugar, take your time to achieve a light and airy mixture; this step is crucial for creating a cake that rises beautifully.
Another tip is to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake, while too little can affect the structure. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for accuracy. Lastly, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added; this helps to maintain the cake's lightness.
Decorating Your Honey Cake
Once your Honey Cake is assembled and frosted with lavender buttercream, it’s time to think about decoration. Simple yet elegant decorations can enhance the overall appearance of your cake. Consider garnishing with fresh lavender sprigs or edible flowers for a touch of natural beauty. Drizzling a bit of honey on top can also add a lovely sheen and extra flavor.
For a more festive look, you might add colorful sprinkles or candied citrus peel. Remember, the presentation is just as important as the flavor, and a well-decorated cake can impress guests before they even take a bite. Whether you choose a minimalistic approach or a more extravagant design, your cake will surely be a showstopper.
Ingredients
For the Honey Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp dried lavender
For the Lavender Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp dried lavender, finely ground
Make sure to use culinary lavender for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Honey Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the honey and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and dried lavender. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Lavender Buttercream
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and finely ground lavender, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of lavender buttercream on top of the first layer.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.
- Decorate as desired and serve!
Enjoy your delicious Honey Cake with Lavender Buttercream!
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Honey Cake, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain freshness, you can also refrigerate it, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The lavender buttercream can be kept in the fridge as well, and it’s great for a quick frosting touch-up if needed.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Cake with Lavender Buttercream pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it alongside a cup of chamomile tea or a glass of sparkling lemonade for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent option, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert experience.
If you're hosting a gathering, slice the cake into smaller portions and serve it on a beautifully arranged dessert table. Adding some fresh fruits, like berries or citrus slices, can provide a vibrant and colorful contrast to the cake, making it visually appealing while enhancing the taste with their tartness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, but make sure it's culinary-grade and use it sparingly as fresh lavender can be more potent.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added to create a buttermilk substitute.
Honey Cake Lavender Buttercream
Indulge in the delightful combination of honey and lavender in this luxurious cake topped with a creamy buttercream frosting.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Homemade Dessert Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Honey Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp dried lavender
For the Lavender Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp dried lavender, finely ground
How-To Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the honey and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and dried lavender. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and finely ground lavender, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of lavender buttercream on top of the first layer.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.
- Decorate as desired and serve!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g