Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake

Name: Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup water; 1 tablespoon culinary lavender; Fresh raspberries; Sprigs of lavender

Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations

When I first combined raspberries and lavender, I was amazed by how beautifully these two flavors harmonized. This Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake is not just visually stunning; it captivates the senses with every bite. I love the floral notes of lavender intertwined with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a delicate balance that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake has become a family favorite that I’m excited to share with you.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:57:28.027Z

As I embarked on creating this Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake, I wanted to highlight the vibrant flavors of both raspberries and lavender. I experimented with infusing lavender into the batter, which gave the cake a subtle yet distinctive aroma. It took me a few tries to balance the sweetness and tartness perfectly, but the result was worth every minute. My family couldn’t get enough of it!

One tip I learned along the way is to use culinary-grade lavender. Not only does it ensure the flavor is just right, but it also brings a beautiful color and fragrance to the cake. I like to top it off with a light lavender syrup, which adds an extra layer of flavor that truly makes this cake special.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A unique blend of tart raspberries and fragrant lavender
Moist, tender cake that's perfect for any occasion
Visually stunning with vibrant colors and a lovely aroma

Understanding the Flavor Combination

The combination of raspberries and lavender might seem unconventional, but their pairing creates a delightful symphony of flavors. Raspberries bring a bright, tart element that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, while lavender adds a subtle floral complexity. Choosing high-quality culinary lavender is essential; it should be aromatic and not overly woody, as that can affect the cake's flavor profile. You can play with the quantity of lavender to suit your taste, but a tablespoon is a good starting point to achieve a lovely fragrant balance.

Both raspberries and lavender are not just flavor contributors; they also play a role in the cake's moisture. Raspberries release their juices as they bake, keeping the cake moist, while the lavender syrup adds a sweet, floral layer right at the finish. The cake's tender crumb comes from the right mixing method, so ensure you cream the butter and sugar well, achieving a light and airy texture before integrating the other ingredients.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing your batter, be cautious not to over-mix after adding the flour, as this could lead to a dense cake. Instead, gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined, and then incorporate the raspberries. They can break down if mixed vigorously, which would change the cake's texture and appearance. Using fresh raspberries is key; frozen ones may add too much moisture and could weigh the batter down, resulting in a heavier cake.

Always preheat your oven. An oven that's adequately heated ensures that the cake rises properly and achieves a beautiful golden-brown top. For perfect baking, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the cake is done. If you notice darkening around the edges of your cake and a still-wet center, consider giving it another few minutes in the oven, checking every minute to prevent over-baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

Cake Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

Lavender Syrup (for drizzling)

½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup water
1 tablespoon culinary lavender

For Garnish

Fresh raspberries
Sprigs of lavender

Make sure you also have some extra raspberries and lavender for garnishing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake:

Prepare the Lavender Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the lavender and remove from heat. Let it steep for 15 minutes, then strain and set aside.

Mix the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually alternate mixing in the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture. Fold in the lavender and fresh raspberries.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Finish with Lavender Syrup

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lavender syrup over the top. Garnish with fresh raspberries and sprigs of lavender before slicing.

Enjoy your light and fragrant Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake!

Pro Tips

For best flavor, ensure you use fresh raspberries and culinary-grade lavender. You can adjust the amount of lavender in the syrup according to your preference for floral notes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Raspberry Lavender Pisces Cake can be made in advance, making it perfect for busy schedules or special occasions. If you plan to prepare it a day ahead, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap to lock in moisture. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, be mindful that if stored too long, the vibrant raspberry pieces may start to release moisture into the cake, affecting its texture.

If you wish to freeze the cake, slice it into individual servings before wrapping each piece tightly in plastic, followed by foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and drizzle with lavender syrup just before enjoying for the freshest flavor experience.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this cake is delightful as is, consider experimenting with different fruit combinations or glazes. For a more citrusy tang, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter. If you prefer a sweeter profile, consider folding in white chocolate chips along with the raspberries for added richness. You can also replace half of the raspberries with blackberries or blueberries, which will give you a different berry medley, enhancing the cake’s visual appeal and taste.

For serving, pair the cake with clotted cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a refreshing and indulgent experience. A cup of herbal tea, particularly chamomile or a floral blend, complements the lavender beautifully, enhancing the experience of this unique dessert. Presenting the cake on a wooden cake stand, adorned with fresh raspberries and lavender sprigs, adds to its charm and makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just make sure to gently fold them into the batter to avoid breaking them.

→ Where can I find culinary lavender?

Culinary lavender can often be found in specialty grocery stores or online. Make sure it's labeled as culinary to ensure it's safe for consumption.

→ 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 make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring a 1-to-1 ratio.