Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe

Are you craving a dessert that’s both visually stunning and tantalizing to the taste buds? Look no further than this mouthwatering Blackberry Lavender Cake recipe! Bursting with the fresh, fruity flavor of ripe blackberries and the delicate floral notes of lavender, this cake is a perfect treat for any special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. So, if you want to learn how to make this show-stopping dessert, read on!

this Recipe

What is Blackberry Lavender Cake?

A Blackberry Lavender Cake combines the natural sweetness of blackberries with the subtle, aromatic flavor of culinary lavender. The blackberries bring a rich, fruity tang, while the lavender adds a light floral note that’s both sophisticated and unique. This cake typically includes layers of moist, tender cake infused with lavender and a blackberry filling or frosting that adds a burst of color and flavor. It’s an elegant dessert that strikes the perfect balance between fruitiness and floral undertones.

Ingredients List for Blackberry Lavender Cake

To create this delicious Blackberry Lavender Cake, you’ll need a few special ingredients to bring out the flavors of both blackberries and lavender. Below is a complete list of ingredients you’ll need to make the cake batter, the blackberry filling, and the frosting.

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon culinary-grade dried lavender
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Zest of one lemon (optional for a citrusy twist)

For the Blackberry Filling:

• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blackberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)
• ¼ cup water

For the Lavender Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon culinary-grade dried lavender
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Purple food coloring (optional for an extra lavender color)

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are a few substitutions and variations you can make for this Blackberry Lavender Cake recipe:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free as well.
• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with a vegan egg replacer, and use plant-based milk (like almond milk or coconut milk) and vegan butter instead of dairy products.
• Sugar-Free Version: Opt for a natural sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar.
• Lemon Blackberry Lavender Cake: Add lemon zest and juice to the cake batter for a citrusy flavor that complements the blackberries and lavender.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to bake? Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to make your Blackberry Lavender Cake from scratch.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Lavender Infusion

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and dried lavender over low heat. Allow the lavender to steep in the warm milk for 10-15 minutes. Strain the milk to remove the lavender buds and let the milk cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the lavender-infused milk. Mix just until combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Divide the cake batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, then bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Blackberry Filling

While the cakes are cooling, make the blackberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 6: Make the Lavender Buttercream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and dried lavender, and mix on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. If desired, add a few drops of purple food coloring to give the frosting a lavender hue.

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

Once all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble your beautiful Blackberry Lavender Cake! Here’s a quick guide on how to put everything together:

1. Level the Cakes: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if needed.
2. Spread the Filling: Place one cake layer on a cake stand or plate. Spread an even layer of blackberry filling over the top.
3. Add the Second Layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the blackberry filling.
4. Frost the Cake: Using a spatula or piping bag, frost the entire cake with the lavender buttercream frosting, starting with a thin crumb coat to seal in the crumbs, followed by a thicker layer.
5. Decorate: For a final touch, you can decorate the cake with fresh blackberries, edible flowers, or even a sprinkle of dried lavender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making this cake:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Allowing the Cake to Cool: Make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before assembling, or the filling and frosting may melt.
• Using Too Much Lavender: Lavender has a strong flavor. Use it sparingly to avoid an overpowering floral taste.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters just as much as flavor when it comes to desserts! Here’s how to serve and present your Blackberry Lavender Cake like a pro:

How to Serve Blackberry Lavender Cake

Serve each slice of cake on a white or pastel-colored plate to highlight the vibrant purple hues of the blackberries and lavender. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs perfectly with the cake.

Presentation Ideas for Blackberry Lavender Cake

• Fresh Blackberries: Top the cake with a handful of fresh blackberries for an elegant and natural touch.
• Edible Flowers: Decorate the cake with a few edible lavender flowers or small pansies to enhance its visual appeal.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top gives the cake a delicate, professional finish.

Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Blackberry Lavender Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Infuse the Lavender Properly: Don’t rush the lavender infusion step. Letting the lavender steep in the milk for the full 10-15 minutes will enhance the floral flavor.
• Chill the Frosting: If your buttercream is too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before frosting the cake.
• Fresh vs Frozen Blackberries: Fresh blackberries will give the filling the best flavor, but frozen blackberries work well too—just be sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers and make the filling a day in advance. Just wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q: Can I use lavender essential oil instead of dried lavender?
A: It’s best to stick with culinary-grade dried lavender for this recipe. Lavender essential oil is highly concentrated and can easily overpower the cake.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The Blackberry Lavender Cake is a dessert that combines bold, fruity flavors with delicate floral notes, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow these step-by-step instructions, and enjoy a slice of this beautiful cake!

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