“`html
Rustic Pear Lavender Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the sweetness of ripe pears with the subtle floral notes of lavender. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy afternoon tea. The unique combination of flavors will leave your guests impressed and asking for the recipe. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have you baking like a pro!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Prepare the Lavender: In a small bowl, combine the dried lavender with 2 tablespoons of sugar. This will help release the lavender’s flavor.
- Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and remaining sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the lavender-sugar mixture.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Add the Pears: Fold in the diced pears gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve. Enjoy your Rustic Pear Lavender Cake!
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but you will need to use more as the flavor is less concentrated. About 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lavender should suffice.
How do I store the Rustic Pear Lavender Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute pears with other fruits?
Absolutely! Apples or peaches can be used as a substitute for pears, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This cake contains gluten and dairy, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter alternatives to make it suitable for specific dietary needs.
What occasions is this cake perfect for?
Rustic Pear Lavender Cake is ideal for tea parties, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique dessert.
“`