Lavender Peach Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan (or line with parchment paper for easy removal). Set aside.

Step 2: Infuse the Lavender

• To bring out the flavors of the lavender, you can infuse it in the buttermilk. In a small saucepan, heat the buttermilk over low heat until warm (don’t let it boil).
• Add the dried lavender buds to the buttermilk, stir, and let it steep for 5–10 minutes.
• Strain out the lavender buds and allow the lavender-infused buttermilk to cool before using. This will ensure that the lavender flavor is evenly distributed in the cake.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the zest of 1 lemon. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed 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.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the lavender-infused buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Peaches

• Gently fold in the chopped peaches until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Lavender Peach Syrup (Optional)

• While the cake cools, you can make the lavender peach syrup (optional). In a small saucepan, combine lavender buds, water, and honey or sugar.
• Bring to a simmer and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup and drizzle it over the cooled cake for extra floral flavor.

Step 9: Glaze the Cake (Optional)

• In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, peach juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.

Serving Tips

• Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: This Lavender Peach Cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Perfect for Afternoon Tea: It’s a delightful addition to any tea party or afternoon tea. The delicate floral notes of lavender complement the sweetness of peaches perfectly.
• Serve Room Temperature or Chilled: This cake is delicious served at room temperature, but if you prefer it chilled, store it in the refrigerator and serve it cold for a refreshing twist.

Optional Variations

• Peach Compote: Instead of fresh peaches in the cake, you can use a peach compote. Cook fresh peaches with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until soft and syrupy. Add this to the batter for an extra burst of peach flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Lavender Infused Buttercream: For a richer cake, top the cake with a lavender-infused buttercream frosting instead of the glaze.
• Peach Variation: Try using nectarines or apricots instead of peaches for a slightly different fruit flavor.
• Vegan Option: To make this cake vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flax meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

Final Thoughts

This Lavender Peach Cake is the perfect summer dessert, blending the sweetness of ripe peaches with the delicate floral fragrance of lavender. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a treat to brighten your day, this cake is sure to stand out. Its tender crumb, moist texture, and balanced flavors make it a must-try recipe for any baker.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in this one-of-a-kind cake that will transport you to a sunny orchard in full bloom. Lavender Peach Cake is sure to become your go-to recipe for any occasion!

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