There’s something magical about a cake that combines the bright zing of lemon with the delicate aroma of lavender. The Mother’s Day Lemon Lavender Cake isn’t just any dessert it’s a celebration of spring, sunshine, and the special women in our lives. Imagine slicing into a fluffy, yellow cake that practically sings with citrusy notes while a gentle hint of lavender lingers on your palate. This cake not only tickles your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Every year, my family gathers to celebrate Mother’s Day with a feast fit for queens. One year, I decided to surprise everyone with this stunning Lemon Lavender Cake. I still remember the look on my mom’s face when she took her first bite it was as if she’d been transported to a sun-soaked garden. This cake is perfect for special occasions, but trust me it’ll brighten any day. So grab your apron and get ready for an amazing flavor experience
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Mother’s Day Lemon Lavender Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making baking stress-free and fun
- Its unique flavor profile combines sweet and tart with floral notes, creating a delightful balance
- Visually stunning with its bright yellow hue, this cake will steal the show at any gathering
- It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as an afternoon treat or as a centerpiece for celebrations
The first time I made this cake, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it especially when they realized it was gluten-free
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour: Choose a good blend to ensure your cake has the right texture without crumbling.
- Granulated Sugar: This is key for sweetness feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise nobody wants a flat cake
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Eggs: Large eggs work best they provide structure and moisture.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor trust me
- Lavender Buds: Use culinary-grade lavender for safety and flavor it adds a lovely floral note.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Sour Cream or Yogurt: This keeps the cake moist and adds tanginess.
- Powdered Sugar (for frosting): For that sweet touch on top don’t skip this
- Milk or Cream (for frosting): Adjust consistency as needed until you reach that perfect creamy texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or nonstick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and dried lavender buds until well combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time before adding lemon zest and juice. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything’s mixed well.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture alternating with sour cream until just combined don’t overmix
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
This magical process transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary
Now you have all the steps laid out like breadcrumbs leading you straight to dessert heaven: fluffy, zesty Mother’s Day Lemon Lavender Cake awaits As you dig in, don’t forget to share this delightful creation with loved ones or hoard it all for yourself. No judgment here
You Must Know
- This Mother’s Day Lemon Lavender Cake is a delightful blend of citrus and floral notes, creating a cake that’s not just tasty but also a feast for the senses
- The aroma as it bakes fills your kitchen with warmth and anticipation
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar, then slowly add eggs while mixing. Combine dry ingredients separately before folding them into the wet mixture to ensure even distribution, resulting in a light, fluffy cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lemon zest for orange zest or add fresh berries for a fruity twist. You can even drizzle a lavender-infused syrup on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lavender for a more vibrant flavor dried lavender can be too strong
- Always sift your flour to avoid clumps and ensure even texture
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting for best results
Baking this cake always reminds me of my mother’s laughter filling the room when she first tasted it. Her joyful reaction made all the effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use dried lavender in my Mother’s Day Lemon Lavender Cake?
Yes, but use sparingly as it can be quite potent compared to fresh lavender.
What type of frosting pairs well with this cake?
A light lemon cream cheese frosting complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
How do I ensure my cake is moist?
Avoid overmixing the batter and check doneness using a toothpick it should come out clean.

Lemon Lavender Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Celebrate spring with this enchanting Lemon Lavender Cake, a perfect blend of bright lemon zest and delicate lavender aroma. This gluten-free dessert is not only visually stunning but also offers a unique flavor profile that will captivate your taste buds. Ideal for Mother’s Day or any special occasion, this cake will fill your kitchen with delightful scents and make cherished memories with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp culinary-grade lavender buds
- Powdered sugar (for frosting)
- Milk or cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lavender buds.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon zest and juice.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients alternately with sour cream until just mixed.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg