Vanilla Lavender Cake with Dark Chocolate Ganache Recipe
A delicate and fragrant Vanilla Lavender Cake topped with a rich Dark Chocolate Ganache, combining floral notes with the deep flavor of chocolate for a sophisticated dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender
- 1 cup buttermilk
Ganache Ingredients
- 8 ounces dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and dried lavender. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Dark Chocolate Ganache: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly to thicken.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of ganache on top. Place the second cake layer over it and use the remaining ganache to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set. Bring to room temperature before slicing and serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade dried lavender for best flavor and to avoid bitterness.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
Keywords: Vanilla Lavender Cake, Dark Chocolate Ganache, Floral Cake, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe
