Are you craving a delicious, moist, and fluffy cake that is entirely plant-based and full of fruity flavor? Look no further than this vegan lavender blackberry cake! With the perfect balance of sweet and subtle floral notes, this cake is perfect for a summertime dessert or a special occasion. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this cake, while also exploring essential ingredients, baking tips, gluten-free alternatives, and frosting options.
Vegan Baking: Tips and Tricks
Before we dive into the specifics of this recipe, it’s important to understand some basics of vegan baking. First and foremost, always preheat your oven and measure your ingredients carefully. This ensures proper texture and consistency. Non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy, can replace cow’s milk in most baking recipes, while vegan butter alternatives, like coconut oil or vegetable shortening, are perfect substitutes for dairy butter. Additionally, applesauce or mashed bananas can replace eggs, which are usually used as binders in traditional baking recipes.
Another important aspect of vegan baking is understanding the role of leavening agents. Baking powder and baking soda are commonly used in baking to help the dough or batter rise. However, not all brands of these products are vegan-friendly, as some may contain animal-derived ingredients. It’s important to read the labels carefully and choose brands that are labeled as vegan or do not contain any animal products. Alternatively, you can make your own baking powder by mixing baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Baking
When it comes to vegan baking, it’s important to have certain ingredients on hand. These include baking powder, baking soda, flour, sugar, and a dash of salt. In addition, you’ll need a non-dairy milk, vegan butter, applesauce or mashed banana, and in this recipe, fresh blackberries, culinary lavender, and lemon juice.
It’s also important to note that some ingredients commonly used in traditional baking, such as eggs and dairy, cannot be used in vegan baking. Instead, you can use substitutes such as flax eggs, aquafaba, or silken tofu to achieve similar results. It may take some experimentation to find the right substitute for your recipe, but with practice, you can create delicious vegan baked goods that are just as satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts.
The Benefits of Using Lavender in Your Recipes
Lavender not only adds a unique, herbal flavor to your baking recipes, but it’s also a great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The essential oil found in lavender has been shown to have calming effects on the body, making this ingredient a perfect choice for a calming and sweet treat.
In addition to its calming properties, lavender is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This makes it a great ingredient to incorporate into recipes that promote overall health and wellness. Additionally, lavender has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to aid in digestion and relieve headaches. So not only does it taste great, but it can also provide a range of health benefits.
The Best Type of Blackberries for Baking
When selecting blackberries for this recipe, be sure to choose plump, juicy berries that are in season. A mix of tart and sweet berries will give your cake the perfect balance of flavor. If fresh blackberries are unavailable, frozen berries can be used instead.
There are several types of blackberries that are ideal for baking. The most popular variety is the thornless blackberry, which is easy to handle and has a sweet, juicy flavor. Another great option is the Marionberry, which is a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry. It has a deep, rich flavor that is perfect for pies and cobblers.
When using blackberries in baking, it’s important to remember that they can release a lot of juice. To prevent your baked goods from becoming too soggy, try tossing the berries in a little bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This will help absorb some of the excess moisture and keep your cake or pie from becoming too wet.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Flour for Your Cake
In order to make this cake gluten-free, consider using a blend of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. These alternative flours may require different ratios and adjustments, so be sure to read the recipe carefully and follow instructions carefully. Gluten-free flours can also be found in most health food stores or online shops.
If you are looking to make a cake with a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Cake flour has a lower protein content, which results in a softer and more tender crumb. However, if you don’t have cake flour on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing all-purpose flour with cornstarch. For every cup of all-purpose flour, remove two tablespoons and replace with two tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift the mixture together to ensure it is well combined before using in your recipe.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lavender Blackberry Cake
Now that we’ve explored some of the basic principles of vegan baking, let’s dive into the details of making this cake. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, and grease a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, ½ tsp of baking soda, and ½ tsp of salt, and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of non-dairy milk, ½ cup of melted vegan butter, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tbsp of finely chopped lavender buds, and 1 tbsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Add 1 cup of fresh blackberries and fold gently into the batter.
Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cake has cooled, you can add a finishing touch by dusting it with powdered sugar or topping it with a dollop of vegan whipped cream.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can also try adding a drizzle of lavender-infused syrup or a handful of fresh blackberries on top. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual afternoon tea with friends.
Vegan Frosting Alternatives
This cake can be frosted with either traditional or vegan frosting, depending on your dietary needs. For a vegan alternative, consider making a coconut cream frosting or a cashew cream frosting. These options are creamier and richer than traditional frosting, plus they’re lactose-free and vegan-friendly.
Coconut cream frosting is made by whipping together coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. It has a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with chocolate or vanilla cake. Cashew cream frosting, on the other hand, is made by blending soaked cashews, non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. It has a nutty flavor and a silky texture that works well with carrot cake or spice cake.
Both coconut cream frosting and cashew cream frosting are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. You can add cocoa powder to the coconut cream frosting for a chocolatey twist, or add lemon juice to the cashew cream frosting for a tangy flavor. These vegan frosting alternatives are not only delicious but also healthier than traditional frosting, as they contain less sugar and no artificial ingredients.
Decorating Options for Your Lavender Blackberry Cake
Once your cake has cooled, it’s time to decorate it! You can use fresh blackberries, lavender sprigs, or edible flowers to add a pop of color to your cake. For a more whimsical approach, consider piping a message or frosting design onto the top.
If you want to add a bit of texture to your cake, consider using crushed lavender or blackberry pieces as a garnish. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant look.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a blackberry or lavender flavored frosting to complement the flavors in the cake. You can also experiment with different piping tips to create unique designs and patterns on the cake.
How to Serve Your Lavender Blackberry Cake at a Party
This cake is perfect for any party, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a summer gathering. Slice it up into small servings and serve alongside a scoop of non-dairy ice cream. Your guests will be delighted by the unique floral and fruity flavors.
If you want to take the presentation of your cake to the next level, consider adding a few fresh blackberries and a sprig of lavender on top of each slice. This will not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavors of the cake. Additionally, you can pair the cake with a cup of lavender tea or a glass of sparkling wine to create a cohesive and sophisticated dessert experience for your guests.
Health Benefits of Eating Vegan Desserts
In addition to indulging your sweet tooth, choosing vegan desserts can offer you various health benefits. Vegan desserts are often lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can lead to better heart health and weight management. Plus, vegan desserts are often higher in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that your body needs.
Moreover, vegan desserts are often made with natural sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or dates, which are healthier alternatives to refined sugar. These natural sweeteners have a lower glycemic index, which means they don’t cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. This makes vegan desserts a great option for people with diabetes or those who are trying to reduce their sugar intake.
Vegan Desserts for Special Occasions
If you’re looking for more vegan dessert options to add to your repertoire, consider baking vegan cupcakes, cookies, or brownies! With a few simple substitutions and some creativity, you can make any dessert vegan-friendly and delicious.
The Best Vegan Alternatives for Butter and Eggs
In order to make any baked goods vegan, you’ll need to find suitable alternatives to butter and eggs. Luckily, there are plenty of plant-based substitutes available. Coconut oil, mashed banana, tofu, applesauce, and almond milk can all be used in place of traditional dairy and eggs for a vegan-friendly recipe.
How to Store Your Lavender Blackberry Cake
A beautifully baked cake should be stored properly to keep it fresh and delicious. Once your cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll last for up to five days. Alternatively, you can freeze your cake for up to three months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Gluten-Free Options for Your Lavender Blackberry Cake
For those with gluten sensitivities, making this cake gluten-free is possible with a few simple adjustments. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and be sure to read the recipe carefully to ensure that the proper ratios are used. Alternatively, you can find gluten-free boxed cake mixes that are vegan-friendly and easy to make.
With this guide, you’re now equipped to make a vegan lavender blackberry cake that is sure to be a hit! The flavors are perfect for any occasion, and the process of making the cake is simple and easy to follow. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try. Happy baking!