Lavender Infused Heart Cake

Name: Lavender Infused Heart Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3-4 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons lavender simple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

When I decided to bake a Lavender Infused Heart Cake, I was inspired by the beautiful floral notes of lavender paired with the sweetness of cake. I love how the delicate aroma of lavender transforms a simple dessert into something exquisite and truly special. Baking this cake has become a cherished ritual, as the enchanting scent fills my kitchen and creates a soothing atmosphere. Plus, it's a delightful treat for any occasion, combining elegance with a comforting taste that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:41:28.925Z

My journey with lavender-infused treats started when I visited a picturesque lavender farm. The moment I tasted a lavender scone, I knew I had to recreate that magic in my kitchen. This Lavender Infused Heart Cake is my attempt at capturing that essence. The subtle flavor of lavender doesn’t overpower; rather, it whispers sweet notes that blend beautifully with the cake's fluffy texture.

During my trials, I realized that steeping the lavender in buttermilk was the secret to achieving a rich, aromatic flavor. It’s crucial to let the lavender bloom in the milk for at least 15 minutes to extract its full potential. That step made all the difference in making the cake truly memorable!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Delicate floral notes that surprise and delight
Perfectly moist and fluffy texture
A charming centerpiece for any occasion

      

Understanding Lavender in Baking

Lavender brings a unique floral quality that can elevate the flavor profile of your cake. When using dried culinary lavender, it’s crucial to ensure you’re using the right type, as some lavender is not suitable for consumption. The infusion process enhances the natural flavor, so steeping it in buttermilk allows the essence to permeate and infuse your cake with subtle aromatic notes. This is a gentle way to add flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

As you bake, keep an eye on the temperature and timing. Lavender can become slightly bitter if overcooked, so monitoring the baking process closely is essential. A light golden brown top and a toothpick inserted coming out clean are your go-to indicators that your cake is ready. If you find the cake is browning too quickly, consider placing a piece of foil over the top for the last few minutes of baking.

Frosting Variations and Tips

The frosting for this Lavender Infused Heart Cake can be customized to suit your taste. While the recipe suggests using lavender simple syrup, don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavored syrups, such as vanilla or honey, for a different twist. For a stiffer frosting that holds shape better, aim for closer to 4 cups of powdered sugar. Adjusting the powdered sugar will also help manage the sweetness, balancing it with the floral notes beautifully.

Applying the frosting can be an art in itself! Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish, applying a thin layer first for a crumb coat to hold in any loose crumbs. Once that coat has set for about 20 minutes in the fridge, apply your final layer. If you’re feeling adventurous, pipe some decorative swirls or add edible flowers on top to enhance the visual appeal and provide an extra touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Lavender Simple Syrup

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender

For Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons lavender simple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Gather all your ingredients and let’s create something truly beautiful!

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Lavender Milk

In a small saucepan, combine buttermilk and dried lavender. Heat gently until warm, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and set aside.

Make the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the lavender-infused buttermilk and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a heart-shaped cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool.

Prepare Lavender Simple Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and dried lavender. Bring to a simmer until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and let cool.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is cooled, poke holes in the top and drizzle with lavender simple syrup. For frosting, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth, then add lavender syrup to taste. Frost the cake as desired.

Serve & Enjoy

Slice your heart cake and serve! Enjoy the unique flavor and beautiful aroma that will surely impress.

Make sure to savor each bite of this delightful cake!

Pro Tips

For an even more intense lavender flavor, consider adding a few drops of lavender extract to the frosting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

To keep your Lavender Infused Heart Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it can last for about 3-4 days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating the cake, which can help preserve its moisture for up to a week. However, keep in mind that refrigeration might slightly alter the texture, so allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and feel.

Making the cake ahead of time is a great strategy for special occasions. You can bake the cake a day or two before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it sits. Just be sure to frost it the day of serving to maintain that fluffy texture and vibrant visual appeal. If you decide to freeze it, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which can keep it fresh for up to a month.

Scaling the Recipe

This Lavender Infused Heart Cake can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If you’re planning a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients for a larger heart cake, or divide the batter into two smaller cake pans for a layered effect. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed, and check for doneness frequently, especially when working with different pan sizes.

Conversely, if you want a smaller version, you can halve the ingredients and bake in smaller pans. Just be cautious with the baking time; start checking a few minutes earlier to prevent overbaking. Adjustments to the simple syrup and frosting quantities will follow the same doubling or halving patterns, keeping the delightful essence of lavender throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but make sure it is culinary-grade and adjust the quantity since fresh herbs are typically more potent.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5 minutes.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.