Galentine's Lavender Honey Cake

Name: Galentine's Lavender Honey Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup honey; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 eggs; 2 tablespoons culinary lavender; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1-2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon culinary lavender (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I love making cakes that not only taste delicious but also evoke a sense of warmth and celebration, like this Galentine's Lavender Honey Cake. The combination of delicate lavender and sweet honey creates a unique flavor profile that feels both joyful and comforting. This cake has become a favorite in my circle of friends, perfect for our Galentine's gatherings where we celebrate friendship over good food. The process is simple yet rewarding, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:26:31.445Z

As I started experimenting with flavors, I stumbled upon the lovely pairing of lavender and honey. The first time I baked this cake, I was enchanted by the fragrant aroma that filled my kitchen. It’s amazing how the subtle hints of lavender can transform an ordinary cake into something truly special.

One tip I discovered is to use culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor. I also recommend letting the cake cool completely before icing, as it helps the layers stay together and makes cutting the cake a breeze. Your friends will be impressed by this unique dessert!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful combination of floral lavender with sweet honey
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrating friendships during Galentine's Day or any occasion

      

Mastering the Lavender Flavor

In this Galentine's Lavender Honey Cake, the culinary lavender plays a pivotal role in creating a distinct and aromatic profile. It's important to use culinary lavender instead of ornamental varieties, which can be bitter. When measuring the lavender, make sure to crush the buds slightly to release their essential oils, ensuring maximum flavor in your cake. A little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your preference in future bakes.

If you find the lavender flavor too strong or are trying it for the first time, consider steeping the lavender in warm milk before adding it to the batter. This infusion technique softens the floral notes and helps create a more subtle background flavor. Strain the lavender out before mixing the milk into the wet ingredients to avoid larger bits in your cake.

Perfecting the Cake Texture

Achieving the perfect moist and fluffy cake requires the right balance of wet and dry ingredients. Ensure that your butter is at room temperature, as this helps create a light batter. Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until the mixture is airy and pale, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake's rise and texture during baking. Be cautious not to overmix once you combine wet and dry ingredients; mixing just until combined preserves the cake's tenderness.

If you prefer a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk can work well as substitutes for regular milk. Additionally, you can swap out unsalted butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and texture, so a test bake might be a good idea.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup honey
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 eggs
2 tablespoons culinary lavender
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lavender Honey Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons honey
1-2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon culinary lavender (optional, for garnish)

Make sure you have all the ingredients measured out before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful baking experience:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and culinary lavender.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Prepare Glaze

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, honey, and enough milk to achieve desired consistency.

Assemble and Serve

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, drizzle with glaze, and top with the second layer. Drizzle more glaze on top and garnish with lavender, if desired.

Enjoy a slice of this beautiful cake with your friends!

Pro Tips

For a more intense lavender flavor, consider steeping the lavender in the milk for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the batter. Ensure to strain out any lavender buds afterward.

Storing and Serving Tips

This cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but be aware that refrigeration can dry out the cake slightly. To revive stale cake slices, consider microwaving them for a few seconds to regain moisture before serving.

For an elegant touch when serving, consider pairing slices of the Lavender Honey Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of lavender-infused ice cream. This enhances the floral notes and adds a creamy texture that complements the cake beautifully. Also, fresh berries on the side provide a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the honey.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake does not rise as expected, it's vital to check that your baking powder is fresh. Old or expired baking powder can lead to flat cakes, so always test it by adding a teaspoon to warm water—if it bubbles, it’s good to use. Additionally, make sure to correctly measure your flour. Too much flour can lead to a dense texture; using the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag will yield more accurate results.

In case of a cake that seems to be browning too quickly on the edges, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extending the baking time. This helps ensure a more even bake throughout the cake without burning the outside. Using parchment paper in the bottom of the pans can also help with sticking and ensure easy removal after cooling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lavender from my garden?

Yes, but make sure it's culinary-grade and free from pesticides.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it before glazing.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup if you're looking for a vegan option.