As the warm afternoon sun streams through my kitchen window, I’m reminded of those serene moments spent enjoying tea and cake with friends. The enchanting aroma of Earl Grey and lavender fills my home, inviting everyone in with its sweet, floral notes. This Earl Grey Lavender Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a delightful escape from the everyday chaos, an elegant treat that adds a touch of luxury to any occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating a special event, hosting an afternoon tea, or simply indulging yourself, this cake is bound to impress. Its moist crumb, velvety texture, and sophisticated flavor combination create a dessert that’s as inviting as it is delightful. And the best part? With easy-to-follow steps and handy variations, you can customize your creation to suit any palate. Join me in baking this aromatic masterpiece that blends the calming essence of tea with the delicate charm of lavender. Let’s turn your kitchen into a haven of flavor and elegance!
Why is Earl Grey Lavender Cake so special?
Aromatic Delight: The infusion of Earl Grey tea and lavender creates an enchanting flavor profile that tantalizes your senses.
Versatile Baking Options: From layered cakes to charming cupcakes, this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.
Elegant Presentation: With its stunning visuals and delicate flavors, it suits any occasion, from tea parties to birthdays.
Simple Steps: The straightforward instructions make baking stress-free, even for novice cooks.
Perfect for Celebrations: Impress family and friends with this sophisticated dessert that’s bound to stand out at any gathering.
Make sure to check out my tips for serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this delightful cake!
Earl Grey Lavender Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Earl Grey Lavender Milk – Infuses the cake with floral aromas; substitute dried lavender with lavender extract (2 tsp) if needed.
• Cake Flour – Provides structure and lightness; all-purpose flour can be used, but expect a denser texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the cake’s texture; brown sugar could work as a substitute but will alter the flavor.
• Baking Powder – Leavens the cake; always check for freshness to ensure a good rise.
• Fine Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; no substitutes needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Egg Whites – Achieves a light and airy texture; use an egg replacer for a vegan option.
• Full-fat Sour Cream – Contributes to moisture and richness; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil also works well as a substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor; vanilla bean paste may be used for a more intense taste.
• Purple Gel Food Coloring – Optional for visual appeal; omit for a natural look.
For the Frosting
• Egg Whites – Essential for Swiss meringue buttercream; use pasteurized egg whites if you’re concerned about raw eggs.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides structure to the frosting; reduce slightly for a less sweet frosting.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess; can be swapped with vegan butter for a plant-based icing.
• Fine Salt – Balances sweetness in frosting; no substitutes necessary.
Dive into these delightful ingredients as you create your own Earl Grey Lavender Cake, an aromatic dessert that’s both simple to make and striking to serve!
How to Make Earl Grey Lavender Cake
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Prepare Earl Grey Lavender Milk: Heat 1 cup of milk in a saucepan, then add 1 tablespoon of dried lavender and 2 Earl Grey tea bags. Let it steep for 15 minutes before straining and cooling the mixture.
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Make Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of cake flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of fine salt. Add ½ cup of unsalted butter and mix on low speed until combined. Incorporate 4 egg whites, ½ cup sour cream, 1 cup of lavender milk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until fully blended and smooth.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the cake batter evenly between greased cake pans and bake for 32-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool: Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
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Make Frosting: In a heatproof bowl, whisk 4 egg whites with 1 cup of granulated sugar over simmering water until the sugar dissolves. Transfer it to a mixer and beat until stiff peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup of unsalted butter and continue beating until creamy, then mix in any additional flavorings.
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Assemble the Cake: Level the cooled cake layers with a knife, then stack them with frosting in between. Cover the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting, chill it to set, and finish with a thicker coat for a smooth finish.
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Decorate (Optional): If you’re feeling creative, use different colors of frosting to pipe decorative patterns on top of the cake.
Optional: Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Lavender Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Fridge: For longer preservation, refrigerate slices of the Earl Grey Lavender Cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight then gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature for about 10 minutes to restore moisture.
What to Serve with Earl Grey Lavender Cake?
Indulging in a slice of Earl Grey Lavender Cake creates an enchanting culinary experience, inviting a world of delightful pairings.
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Herbal Tea: The subtle flavors of herbal tea enhance the floral notes of the cake, offering a comforting drink that complements its exquisite taste.
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Lemonade: A refreshing lemon drink cuts through the cake’s sweetness, adding a zesty brightness that balances the floral flavors beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a luscious contrast, enriching each bite with a smoothness that harmonizes with the cake’s delicate texture.
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Fresh Berries: Sweet and tart berries bring a juicy burst to your palate, providing a vibrant contrast to the cake’s moist crumb and floral aroma.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luxurious creaminess that enhances the richness of the frosting, making each forkful irresistible.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly can elevate celebrations, its effervescence pairing perfectly with the cake’s sophisticated flavors and adding a festive touch.
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Lavender Sprigs: For a beautiful garnish, fresh lavender adds a visual appeal and a hint of extra floral fragrance, enhancing the overall aesthetic for special occasions.
Whether hosting afternoon tea or a special celebration, these pairings will elevate the experience of your Earl Grey Lavender Cake, creating a feast for the senses.
Earl Grey Lavender Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Cupcakes: Bake at 350°F for 18-21 minutes for about 3 dozen adorable cupcakes, perfect for any occasion. Their individual portions bring a charming touch to gatherings.
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Different Sizes: Opt for two 9-inch or four 6-inch layers using the same batter. Each size allows you to tailor the cake to your celebration, whether large or intimate.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use coconut milk for the Earl Grey milk. Enjoy a luscious cake that everyone can savor!
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Lavender Intensifier: Boost the lavender flavor by adding an extra tablespoon of dried lavender into the batter. This twist will heighten the aromatic experience for lavender lovers.
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Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness. Just remember to adjust the liquid in your recipe slightly for optimal texture.
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Elegant Frosting Flavors: Mix in some lemon zest or a hint of almond extract to elevate the frosting’s flavor. This can create a bright, complimentary taste that pairs beautifully with the cake.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in finely chopped almonds or walnuts into the cake batter for added texture and flavors. It creates a delightful contrast with the moistness of the cake.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, finish with a rich chocolate drizzle for an indulgent touch. The contrast of flavors makes for a memorable bite that stands out!
Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the process of creating a cake that reflects your own unique style!
Make Ahead Options
These Earl Grey Lavender Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by baking them and allowing them to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, the Swiss meringue buttercream frosting can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 1 month. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature and re-whip it slightly before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the frosted cake with your chilled cake layers, add your final coat of frosting, and decorate as desired for a delightful dessert, saving you ample time on busy days!
Expert Tips for Earl Grey Lavender Cake
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Room Temperature: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture in your Earl Grey Lavender Cake.
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Flavor Infusion: Don’t rush the infusion of the Earl Grey lavender milk; steeping for a full 15 minutes allows the delicate floral flavors to shine, enhancing your cake’s taste.
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Proper Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding wet ingredients; this can lead to a denser cake. Mix just until combined for a fluffy result.
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Cake Handling: Chill the cake layers before frosting to avoid crumbling and make assembly easier. Cold cakes are much more manageable when adding your luscious frosting.
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Frosting Perfection: For a smooth Swiss meringue buttercream, make sure the mixing bowl is completely grease-free. A little grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.
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Creative Variations: Experiment with frosting flavors by incorporating lemon zest or additional lavender to match your creativity and preferences while staying true to the Earl Grey Lavender Cake’s spirit.
Earl Grey Lavender Cake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting lavender for the cake?
Absolutely! When selecting lavender, look for dried flowers that are vibrant in color without any dark spots or signs of moisture, which can indicate spoilage. The fragrance should be strong and aromatic! If you can’t find dried lavender, lavender extract serves as a wonderful substitute—just use about 2 teaspoons.
How can I store my Earl Grey Lavender Cake to keep it fresh?
You can store your cake at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to keep it moist. For any leftover pieces, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in the fridge for up to 1 week. To enjoy the cake at its best, let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze the Earl Grey Lavender Cake?
Very! To freeze, wrap slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight, then reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for about 10 minutes to restore their moistness.
What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, there could be a few reasons. First, check that your baking powder is fresh—stale baking powder won’t give the necessary lift. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter; once the wet ingredients are added, mix just until combined. And remember, all your ingredients should be at room temperature for a better texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Earl Grey Lavender Cake?
Absolutely! To make this cake dairy-free, you can substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk. If you have egg allergies, an egg replacer, such as a flax egg or aquafaba, can work well. Just ensure these substitutions align with your dietary preferences!
How can I ensure my frosting is smooth and not grainy?
To achieve a smooth Swiss meringue buttercream, it’s crucial to whisk the egg whites and sugar over simmering water just until the sugar dissolves completely. Once you transfer the mixture to the mixer, beat until stiff peaks form before adding the butter. Make sure your mixing bowl is free of any grease, as even a small amount can affect the whipping process.
Earl Grey Lavender Cake: A Flirty Floral Delight to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Earl Grey Lavender Milk by heating milk, adding dried lavender and tea bags, steep for 15 minutes, then strain.
- Make cake batter by whisking flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix in butter, egg whites, sour cream, lavender milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide batter into greased pans and bake for 32-35 minutes.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, whisk egg whites and sugar over simmering water until sugar dissolves. Beat until stiff peaks, then add butter and flavorings.
- Level cooled layers, stack with frosting in between, and cover with a thin layer of frosting. Chill to set, then add a thicker coat.
- Optionally, use colored frosting to pipe decorative patterns on top.