Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe

Looking for a unique, show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion? This Blackberry Lavender Cake combines the sweet, tart flavor of fresh blackberries with the delicate floral notes of lavender to create a beautiful and sophisticated dessert. With layers of soft lavender-infused cake and a luscious blackberry buttercream, this cake not only tastes delicious but is also visually stunning. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, bridal shower, or any gathering, this Blackberry Lavender Cake is sure to impress. Stay with us as we walk you through the entire process, from selecting ingredients to perfecting the presentation!

this Recipe

What is a Blackberry Lavender Cake?

A Blackberry Lavender Cake is a multi-layered cake that combines the bright, fruity flavor of blackberries with the aromatic and subtle floral taste of lavender. The cake layers are often lightly infused with culinary lavender, while the frosting is made from fresh blackberries, giving the cake a natural, vibrant purple color. The end result is a cake that strikes a perfect balance between sweet, tart, and floral, making it an elegant dessert for special occasions.

Ingredients List for Blackberry Lavender Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this exquisite Blackberry Lavender Cake, including the cake, frosting, and lavender syrup:

For the Lavender Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons culinary lavender (ground or finely chopped)
• ½ cup hot water (to infuse the lavender)

For the Blackberry Buttercream Frosting:

• 1½ cups fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (add more if needed for consistency)
• Pinch of salt

For the Lavender Simple Syrup (Optional but Recommended):

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to personalize this cake? Here are some simple substitutions and variations:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the whole milk or buttermilk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any dairy-free milk alternative. For the frosting, use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
• Gluten-Free: You can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour to make this cake suitable for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities.
• Lavender Alternatives: If lavender isn’t your thing, you can leave it out and replace it with a bit of lemon zest to keep the cake light and refreshing without the floral notes.
• Other Berries: While blackberries give a beautiful flavor and color, you can experiment with raspberries, blueberries, or even strawberries in the frosting.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these instructions step-by-step to create a perfectly moist and flavorful Blackberry Lavender Cake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Infuse the Lavender

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of hot water with the finely chopped or ground lavender. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes, then strain out the lavender pieces using a fine mesh sieve. Set the lavender water aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the cake rises evenly and has a light texture.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract and the strained lavender water, mixing until combined.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with ⅓ of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add ½ of the milk, mixing again. Repeat until all the dry ingredients and milk have been incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—stop when everything is just combined.

Step 6: Divide and Bake

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Use a spatula to smooth out the tops. Bake 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.

How to Make Blackberry Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Puree the Blackberries

Place the blackberries in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. If you prefer a smoother frosting, strain the puree to remove the seeds. Set the puree aside.

Step 2: Beat the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, or until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix.

Step 4: Incorporate Blackberry Puree

Add 4–5 tablespoons of blackberry puree to the frosting, along with the heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium speed until everything is fully combined, and the frosting is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time.

How to Assemble the Blackberry Lavender Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that your cake and frosting are ready, it’s time to assemble this beautiful cake.

Step 1: Level the Cake Layers

Once your cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops if they’ve domed during baking. This will help your layers sit evenly.

Step 2: Brush with Lavender Syrup (Optional)

If you’ve made the lavender simple syrup, brush a little over the top of each cake layer. This adds extra moisture and enhances the lavender flavor.

Step 3: Frost the First Layer

Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of blackberry buttercream over the top, making sure it’s even.

Step 4: Add the Second and Third Layers

Place the second cake layer on top of the first and spread more buttercream over the top. Repeat with the third layer.

Step 5: Frost the Sides and Top

Once all the layers are stacked, use an offset spatula to frost the sides and top of the cake. You can go for a rustic, semi-naked look by leaving some of the cake exposed, or fully cover it for a more polished finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
• Not Cooling the Cake: Always make sure your cake layers are fully cooled before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the buttercream to melt and slide off.
• Using Too Much Lavender: Be careful with the amount of lavender you use. A little goes a long way, and too much can make the cake taste soapy or bitter.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Blackberry Lavender Cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, so here are some tips to make your presentation truly shine.

How to Serve Blackberry Lavender Cake

• Serve slices with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine for an elegant pairing.
• This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Blackberry Lavender Cake

• Garnish the top of the cake with fresh blackberries and lavender sprigs for a simple yet elegant presentation.
• Add a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for a refined, finished look.
• For a special occasion, consider using edible flowers, such as pansies or violas, to decorate the top of the cake.

Blackberry Lavender Cake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to frost them.
• Storage: Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freeze for Later: To freeze, wrap each cake layer separately in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers in the fridge overnight before assembling and frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh lavender?
A: Yes! Dried culinary lavender works just as well as fresh lavender. Just make sure to use culinary-grade lavender and steep it in hot water to soften the flavor.

Q: How do I make sure the lavender doesn’t overpower the cake?
A: Lavender is potent, so it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust based on your taste. The recommended amount (about 2 tablespoons of culinary lavender) should provide a subtle flavor without being overwhelming.

Q: Can I make this cake without lavender?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of floral flavors, you can omit the lavender and still make a delicious blackberry cake. You could even replace it with lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes! Frozen blackberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the frosting.

Conclusion

This Blackberry Lavender Cake is a stunning dessert that offers a delightful mix of fruity, floral, and sweet flavors. With layers of moist lavender-infused cake and a beautiful blackberry buttercream frosting, it’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself and your guests to something truly unique. The cake’s beautiful presentation, combined with its balanced flavors, makes it a showstopper at any event. Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to give it a try—don’t forget to snap a photo and share your delicious creation!

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