Vanilla Lavender Cake Recipe [Fragrant Dessert]

Vanilla lavender cake recipe is a soft, fragrant dessert made by blending classic vanilla flavor and a gentle touch of floral lavender.

This vanilla lavender cake recipe and discovering new things is my real job, and I created this to bring a fresh twist to traditional baking.

It’s meant for those who enjoy subtle, elegant flavors and want something different on the table. The history of using lavender in sweets dates back to European kitchens, especially in French patisseries.

Now I’m sharing how to make this vanilla lavender cake recipe in an easy way, along with serving ideas, tips, health benefits, variations, preservation, and more.

About This Vanilla Lavender Cake Recipe

This vanilla lavender cake recipe offers a soft, moist texture with a gentle floral flavor balanced by sweet vanilla. The taste is delicate and fragrant, never overwhelming, making it a unique dessert for those who enjoy refined flavors.

The ingredients include unsalted butter, egg whites, sugar, flour, baking powder, buttermilk, clear vanilla extract, and a small amount of lavender extract.

The frosting is made with butter, milk, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla bean, and vanilla extract. Together, these ingredients create a light, aromatic cake that feels both elegant and comforting.

How To Prepare Vanilla Lavender Cake Recipe?

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Course: Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American with floral twist

Yield: 12 people

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• Three 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling racks
• Offset spatula or cake knife
• Whisk
• Sifter (optional, for flour and sugar)
• Small sharp knife (for vanilla bean)

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Lavender Cake:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (3 sticks, room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups egg whites (from about 10 eggs or carton egg whites)
• 4 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
• 4 ⅞ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ teaspoon lavender extract
• 2 ¼ cups buttermilk (room temperature)
• 2 ½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Bean Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup milk
• 6 to 8 cups confectioners’ sugar (adjust to preferred consistency)
• 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

How to Make a Lavender Vanilla Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Preheat the Oven

Turn your oven on and set it to 350°F (175°C). Grab three 9-inch cake pans. Either grease or flour them well or line the bottoms with parchment paper so the cakes come out easily later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Put the butter in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat it until it’s smooth and creamy—this should take around 2 minutes. Add the sugar and keep mixing on medium-high until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This part takes 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape the bowl if needed to keep everything even.

Step 3: Add the Egg Whites

Pour in the egg whites slowly, about ¼ cup at a time. Mix well after each addition. Don’t rush—this step helps make the cake light. Scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything blends evenly.

Step 4: Add the Flavorings and Oil

Now mix in the vegetable oil, lavender extract, and clear vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and silky. It should look glossy at this point.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients and Combine

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. You’re going to add this dry mixture to the wet one in parts, alternating with buttermilk. Start with dry, then buttermilk, and repeat until everything are added, ending with the dry mix. Stir just enough to combine. Don’t over mix or the cake might turn out dense.

Step 6: Pour Into Pans

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Use a spatula to level the tops so the cakes bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Put the pans in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. To check if they’re done, stick a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready. They should be lightly golden and spring back when gently touched.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Take the cakes out of the oven and let them sit in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes. After that, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Don’t frost them until they’re fully cool.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla bean seeds and vanilla extract. Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing between each addition. Add a bit of milk as needed until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 10: Assemble and Decorate the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting between each layer. Stack them neatly, and then frost the top and sides of the cake. Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting. Decorate however you like dried lavender buds, edible flowers, or just a nice swirl pattern.

Notes

Use clear vanilla extract for a pure white crumb and frosting, but natural vanilla can be used for deeper flavor. A little lavender goes a long way don’t overdo the extract or the cake may taste soapy.

Cake layers can be baked ahead and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, stored at room temperature or frozen for later assembly.

Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Lavender Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	560
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	16g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	260mg
Total Carbohydrates	78g
Sugars	61g
Protein	5g

Why My Recipe Works

My vanilla lavender cake recipe works because of the careful balance between the floral lavender and classic vanilla, which enhances rather than masks the flavors.

Using egg whites instead of whole eggs helps keep the cake light and airy, while the buttermilk adds tenderness and moisture. The combination of butter and vegetable oil ensures richness without heaviness.

The clear vanilla extract maintains the cake’s clean taste, and the frosting made with real vanilla bean adds depth and creaminess.

Attention to ingredient temperature and proper mixing techniques ensures a perfectly textured, flavorful cake every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this vanilla lavender cake recipe because it brings something new and refreshing to the table. The gentle aroma of lavender paired with smooth vanilla creates a unique flavor that stands out without being too strong.

The texture is light and moist, making every slice feel fresh and homemade. It’s a beautiful cake to serve at gatherings, a thoughtful choice for afternoon tea, or a lovely way to celebrate something special.

The ingredients are simple, but the result feels elevated and memorable, offering both comfort and a touch of creativity in each bite.

Serving Ideas

Serving this vanilla lavender cake recipe with a few thoughtful touches brings out its best qualities. Pair slices with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea to complement the floral notes.

Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add a burst of color and brightness on the side. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few edible lavender buds on top can enhance its elegant look.

For a richer experience, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. This cake also works beautifully as a centerpiece dessert at brunches or special gatherings.

Expert Tips and Tricks

1. If using dried lavender, crush it lightly before adding to release more flavor without bitterness.

2. Line your cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.

3. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together to ensure even distribution and a lighter texture.

4. Whip the egg whites separately until soft peaks form before folding into the batter for extra fluffiness.

5. For a more intense lavender aroma, steep culinary lavender in warm buttermilk for 15 minutes, then strain before using.

6. Chill the frosting slightly if it becomes too soft, making it easier to spread smoothly.

Health Benefits

This vanilla lavender cake recipe offers some health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Using egg whites reduces cholesterol and fat compared to whole eggs, making the cake lighter.

Buttermilk adds calcium and probity’s, which can support digestion and bone health. Lavender, known for its calming properties, may help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

While still a sweet treat, the recipe avoids artificial flavors by using natural vanilla extract and real lavender extract. Overall, it provides a gentle way to enjoy dessert with subtle added benefits beyond just great taste.

Preservation

To keep your vanilla lavender cake recipe fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before refrigerating; it will stay good for up to five days this way.

Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them well; they’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw frozen vanilla lavender cake recipe layers overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

Conclusion

This delicious and amazing vanilla lavender cake recipe is one that everyone will enjoy, bringing a special touch to any gathering or moment.

I created this vanilla lavender cake recipe for sharing during special times, and every time I make it, I truly enjoy the process and the results.

The method I’ve shared is simple and approachable, making it easy to recreate this lovely vanilla lavender cake recipe at home.

I hope this inspires you to try baking it yourself and experience the joy of this vanilla lavender cake recipe, flavorful dessert. It’s a treat worth savoring again and again.

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