Name: Grey Lavender Cake with Honey: A Dreamy Delight to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetness and structure; use less for a less sweet cake.); 2 large Large Eggs (Provides moisture and binding.); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor; can replace with lemon zest or honey.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Ensures moisture and tenderness; can substitute with melted coconut oil.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with milk and vinegar.); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides cake structure; can swap with cake flour.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Essential leavening agent.); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Essential leavening agent.); 2 teaspoons Lavender Earl Grey Tea (Imparts tea flavor and aroma; substitute with regular Earl Grey.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; omit if using salted butter.); 1/4 cup Honey (Provides natural sweetness; can be replaced with maple syrup.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Adds brightness; can replace with orange zest.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Gives structure to the glaze; sift for smooth consistency.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Adjusts glaze consistency; use honey if omitting.)

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How can something so simple evoke feelings of serenity? Baking this Earl Grey Lavender Cake with Honey-Lemon Glaze transforms my kitchen into a fragrant oasis, where floral notes blend seamlessly with the comforting aroma of brewing tea. This delightful single-layer cake is perfect for those who seek a unique dessert that’s both easy to prepare and utterly enchanting. The moist buttermilk base ensures a tender crumb, while the sweet and zesty glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Perfect for tea lovers or anyone tired of the usual fast-food desserts, this cake brings a touch of elegance without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a charming tea party or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, I can’t wait for you to experience the delightful flavors. Ready to enhance your baking repertoire with this aromatic gem?

Why is Earl Grey Lavender Cake irresistible?

Delightful Aromatics: The fragrant notes of lavender and Earl Grey tea create an enchanting baking experience that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Moist and Tender Crumb: Crafted with buttermilk, this cake guarantees a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Simple Yet Stunning: With minimal ingredients, impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Variations: Use different teas or add berries for a personal twist; your creativity knows no bounds!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether enjoyed at tea time or as a delightful dessert, this cake effortlessly elevates any gathering.

Why not pair it with fresh berries or tea, just like my Honey Sriracha Salmon for an enchanting afternoon treat?

Earl Grey Lavender Cake with Honey Ingredients

For the Cake Base

Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and structure; no substitutes typically needed; use less for a less sweet cake.
Large Eggs – Provides moisture and binding; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; can replace with additional lemon zest or honey for a different profile.
Vegetable Oil – Ensures moisture and tenderness; can substitute with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter.
Buttermilk – Adds richness and moisture, contributing to a tender crumb; substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar (½ cup milk + 2 tsp acid).
All-Purpose Flour – Provides cake structure; can swap with cake flour for a finer texture.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
Lavender Earl Grey Tea – Imparts a distinctive tea flavor and aroma; substitute with regular Earl Grey and add lavender extract for aromatic touches.
Salt – Enhances flavor; omit if using salted butter or if sensitive to sodium.

For the Honey-Lemon Glaze

Honey – Provides natural sweetness and flavor; can replace with maple syrup or agave for a different taste.
Lemon Zest – Adds brightness and citrus flavor; replace with orange zest for a delightful twist.
Powdered Sugar – Gives structure to the glaze; sift for a smoother consistency.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Adjusts the glaze consistency and adds tartness; use additional honey if omitting lemon juice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grey Lavender Cake with Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare an 8-inch round cake pan by greasing it well and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures that your delicious Grey Lavender Cake with Honey will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, Lavender Earl Grey tea, and salt if using. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and tea flavor throughout the batter. Set this dry mixture aside, allowing it to settle while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture becomes creamy and slightly thickened. Next, pour in the vegetable oil and buttermilk, mixing until all the wet ingredients are fully combined. This creates a rich, moist base for your Grey Lavender Cake.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the reserved dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Combine them just until no dry floury bits remain; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. You’ll know it’s ready when the batter is smooth and slightly thickened, perfect for a delightful cake.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, then give it a gentle tap on the counter. This helps eliminate any air bubbles trapped within the batter, ensuring a nice, even rise as the Grey Lavender Cake bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when ready. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Honey-Lemon Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare your glaze. In a bowl, whisk together honey, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing to achieve a smooth, glossy glaze. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice if needed; it should be pourable but still thick enough to coat.

Step 8: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the Grey Lavender Cake has cooled completely, drizzle the honey-lemon glaze generously over the top. Let it cascade over the edges for a beautiful finish. This sweet glaze adds a delightful shine and enhances the aromatic flavors of the cake.

Tips for the Best Earl Grey Lavender Cake

Choose Quality Tea: Using high-quality Lavender Earl Grey tea enhances the cake’s flavor. Opt for loose leaf or specialty blends for richer aromatics.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This promotes better emulsification, leading to a fluffier Grey Lavender Cake.
Gentle Mixing: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until no dry flour remains.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. This helps the honey-lemon glaze adhere better and prevents it from sliding off the warm cake.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add lemon juice a little at a time until it’s a pourable consistency, creating a lovely drizzle over your cake.

How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Lavender Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a week but may become slightly denser due to the fridge’s humidity.

Freezer: You can freeze the unglazed cake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Glaze after thawing for the best results.

Reheating: If you’d like a warm slice, microwave it for 10-15 seconds. The flavors of the Earl Grey lavender cake will bloom beautifully when heated!

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Lavender Cake with Honey-Lemon Glaze preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can bake the cake up to 3 days ahead of your desired serving time—just allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. If you want to make the honey-lemon glaze ahead, it can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; just give it a good stir before drizzling. To serve, simply glaze the cake before presenting it to your guests, and enjoy the same delightful flavors without the fuss!

What to Serve with Earl Grey Lavender Cake?

Imagine a lovely afternoon gathering, where fragrant tea wafts through the air and your Earl Grey Lavender Cake takes center stage.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries enhance the cake’s floral notes while adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake. It’s a classic pairing!
Earl Grey Tea: For a harmonious experience, serve with a cup of Earl Grey tea to echo its delightful flavors with every bite.
Citrus Salad: A light salad with orange and lemon segments brightens up the palate, complementing the cake’s honey-lemon glaze.
Cheese Platter: Pair with soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie; the mild, creamy texture balances the cake’s sweetness.
Lemon Sorbet: Refreshing and light, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, making each slice of cake even more enjoyable.
Sparkling Water: A sparkling, citrus-infused water offers a vibrant, fizzy refreshment that complements the aromatic notes beautifully.

These pairings elevate your tea-time experience, making every moment spent with your Earl Grey Lavender Cake simply unforgettable!

Grey Lavender Cake with Honey: Customization Galore!

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making this exquisite cake, and explore the myriad of delightful twists!

Tea Swap: Replace Lavender Earl Grey with chamomile or jasmine tea for a new flavor experience that excites the palate.
Berry Delight: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries into the batter for a fruity boost; the burst of flavor is simply delightful!
Spice it Up: Introduce warm spices such as cardamom or cinnamon for a cozy twist; this will elevate the cake and warm your heart.
Citrus Variation: Substitute lemon zest with orange or grapefruit zest in the glaze for a refreshing citrus kick that pairs beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this aromatic cake without the gluten; be sure to check the measurements for best results.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and a dairy-free yogurt in place of buttermilk to keep it creamy while avoiding dairy; the richness remains intact!
Sweetener Switch: Try maple syrup or agave in the glaze to replace honey for those looking for different sweetness profiles and a more caramel-like undertone.
Chai Infusion: Infuse the cake with chai spices like ginger and cloves to create a heartwarming flavor reminiscent of cozy evenings with tea.

For an extra treat, why not try pairing this cake with the Honey Chicken Cutlets for a delightful meal? Or you could make a refreshing side by serving it alongside my Strawberry Mango Cupcakes. Happy baking!

Earl Grey Lavender Cake with Honey Recipe FAQs

What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for the cake?
I recommend using high-quality Lavender Earl Grey tea for the best flavor. Loose leaf or specialty blends provide richer aromatics, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. If you can’t find it, regular Earl Grey works too; just add a bit of culinary lavender for that lovely floral touch.

How long can I store the Earl Grey Lavender Cake?
You can keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, which is perfect for those cozy afternoons. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Just keep in mind that the cake might get slightly denser in the fridge due to humidity.

Can I freeze the cake, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unglazed Earl Grey Lavender Cake for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and glaze it after thawing for the best results.

What should I do if the cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. To prevent this next time, fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined, and ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before starting. This will give you that delicate crumb we all love!

Can my pet safely consume Earl Grey Lavender Cake?
While the cake is delightful for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Tea, especially varieties with added flavors like lavender, can be harmful to animals. If you’re looking for a treat to share with your furry friend, consider making a pet-friendly cake instead!

What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you find yourself without buttermilk, don’t worry! You can easily make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of whole milk with 2 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles a bit. This will provide that rich moisture needed for the cake.