Lavender Honey Tea Cake

Introduction

Lavender Honey Tea Cake is a fragrant and delicately flavored baked treat that blends the floral notes of lavender with the natural sweetness of honey. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a soothing dessert after a meal, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional tea breads. With its soft crumb, gentle aroma, and subtle flavor profile, it appeals to both seasoned bakers and beginners looking to impress with something special.

The History

The use of lavender in cooking dates back centuries, particularly in Mediterranean regions like Provence in France, where it was used not only for perfumery but also in culinary creations. Honey, too, has a long history as a natural sweetener across many cultures. Combining the two into a tea cake is a modern adaptation inspired by classic British teacakes and French lavender desserts. This particular blend represents a harmonious fusion of old-world ingredients and contemporary baking sensibilities.

Ingredients Breakdown

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake and helps maintain a tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises properly without the need for yeast.
• Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of other ingredients.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake’s texture.
• Honey: Natural sweetener with a distinct floral note that complements the lavender.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s rise and texture.
• Milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth, preventing it from becoming dry.
• Dried Culinary Lavender: The star ingredient, offering a calming floral essence.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile and balances the floral notes.
• Lemon Zest (optional): Adds brightness and depth to the flavor palette.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly and dusting with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream softened butter and honey until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
5. Mix in vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.
6. Fold in the dry ingredients alternately with milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture to avoid curdling.
7. Gently stir in dried lavender buds, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips

• Use culinary-grade lavender to ensure safety and flavor; avoid ornamental varieties.
• For extra moisture, brush the warm cake with a little warmed honey mixed with a teaspoon of water or lemon juice.
• Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to prevent a tough texture.
• If the top begins to brown too quickly during baking, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.

Variations and Customizations

• Lemon Lavender Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of lemon juice and a few drops of lavender extract. Drizzle over cooled cake slices.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the batter for added crunch.
• Coconut Flakes: Fold in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
• Tea Infusion: Replace some of the milk with brewed chamomile or earl grey tea for additional layers of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

This Lavender Honey Tea Cake offers more than just taste—it carries potential health benefits from its key ingredients:

• Honey contains antioxidants and may soothe sore throats or aid digestion when consumed in moderation.
• Lavender is known for its calming properties and may help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• By choosing whole ingredients and avoiding refined sugars or artificial additives, this cake becomes a wholesome treat option.
• Each slice (assuming 8 servings) contains approximately:
  • Calories: 220–260 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35g
  • Protein: 4–5g
  • Fat: 10–12g
  • Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (180ml) honey
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup (80ml) milk
• 1 tbsp culinary-grade dried lavender buds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 8×4-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in vanilla and lemon zest if using.
6. Fold in the dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
7. Gently mix in lavender buds.
8. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

FAQ

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

It’s best to use dried culinary lavender for stronger flavor and less moisture content. Fresh lavender can be substituted, but use about twice the amount and chop finely before adding.

Is this cake suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of regular eggs.

How do I store leftover Lavender Honey Tea Cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What kind of honey works best?

Lighter honeys like clover or wildflower pair well with lavender. Avoid strongly flavored honeys like buckwheat which may overpower the delicate floral notes.