Lavender Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the refreshing zest of lemon with the subtle floral notes of lavender. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a light, aromatic treat, this cake will brighten any day with its unique flavor profile.
Butter provides the rich, creamy base, giving the cake its tender, moist texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake just right, balancing the tartness of the lemon. Eggs help bind everything together, creating a smooth batter. Lemon zest infuses the cake with bright citrus flavor. Culinary lavender adds a subtle floral note, enhancing the lemon without overpowering it. Whole milk adds moisture, contributing to the cake's tender crumb. Lemon juice offers a fresh burst of tartness. All-purpose flour is the structural backbone, providing the necessary gluten to hold the cake. Baking powder and baking soda ensure a nice rise, while salt enhances all the flavors. Lastly, the powdered sugar and additional lemon juice combine to create a simple, tangy glaze that tops off the cake beautifully.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a sophisticated touch, serve it with a side of fresh berries or a berry compote. Its light, floral notes also complement a cup of Earl Grey tea beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they're fully incorporated.
Stir in the grated lemon zest and ground lavender, mixing until combined. These ingredients will infuse the batter with their aromatic qualities. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk and lemon juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cake is cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.