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Sweet Plum Lavender Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the tartness of ripe plums with the fragrant essence of lavender. This unique cake not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a touch of elegance to any gathering. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. With its moist texture and aromatic flavor, Sweet Plum Lavender Cake is a must-try for any baking enthusiast.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Plums and Lavender: Gently fold in the chopped plums and dried lavender until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but you’ll need to use more than dried lavender since the flavor is less concentrated. About 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lavender should suffice.
What can I substitute for plums?
If plums are not available, you can substitute them with other stone fruits like peaches or cherries, which will also work well in this recipe.
How should I store the Sweet Plum Lavender Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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