Lavender chocolate cake

Lavender and Chocolate Cake - A Fluffy and Aromatic Indulgence

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

I invite you to discover a refined yet simple recipe for lavender and chocolate cake. This dessert will not only delight your taste buds but also add a sophisticated touch to any occasion. Lavender, with its delicate floral aroma, combined with chocolate, creates a perfect balance between sweetness and fragrance. I will share all the secrets of this recipe so that you can achieve a fluffy and aromatic cake worthy of the most elegant tables.

Recipe History

The cake has a long history, rooted in the pastry traditions of various cultures. Over time, cake recipes have evolved, with each region contributing its unique touch. Lavender, a plant valued not only for its beauty but also for its flavors, began to be used in cooking to add a fresh and floral taste. This lavender and chocolate cake is a modern reinterpretation of a classic dessert that blends tradition with innovation.

Ingredients

- 250 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 100 g margarine
- 2 eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon edible lavender
- A few drops of lavender essence
- 2 bars of chocolate (cooking chocolate)

Necessary Utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Cake pan (approximately 25 cm long)
- Parchment paper
- Grater for chocolate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pan
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Line the cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends slightly beyond the edges for easy removal of the cake after baking.

Step 2: Mixing the Yolks
In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and a pinch of salt. Use the mixer to beat them vigorously with the sugar until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy. This process will help incorporate air into the mixture, giving it a light texture.

Step 3: Adding the Margarine
Once the yolks are well mixed, pour in the melted and cooled margarine, stirring continuously. This will be easier if the margarine is left at room temperature for a few minutes before use.

Step 4: Including the Milk and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder, edible lavender, and lavender essence. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air.

Step 5: Beating the Egg Whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This is a crucial step to give the cake a fluffy texture. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake mixture using the spatula, being careful not to deflate them.

Step 6: Adding the Chocolate
Grate the two bars of cooking chocolate over the mixture and gently stir to distribute the chocolate evenly.

Step 7: Baking the Cake
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with the spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. After it has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar or sugar mixed with lavender for a unique visual and aromatic effect.

Practical Tips

- Lavender Ingredients: Make sure to use edible lavender, not garden plants that may be chemically treated. Lavender from specialty sources or organic stores is ideal.
- Chocolate: You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to achieve various flavors.
- Variations: If you want to add extra texture, you can incorporate a handful of raisins or chopped nuts into the mixture. You can also add some berries when serving for a contrast of color and flavor.

Suggested Pairings

This lavender and chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a creamy cappuccino. For a festive touch, you can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains simple and accessible ingredients, providing a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats from the margarine. Lavender is known for its calming and aromatherapeutic properties, while chocolate can provide an energy boost due to its cocoa content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes, you can use unsalted butter, which will add a richer flavor.
- Can I replace the milk with a plant-based alternative? Absolutely! Almond milk or soy milk are excellent options.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for a longer duration.

This lavender and chocolate cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an experience full of flavor and texture. With every bite, you'll indulge in delicate tastes and a floral note, turning any moment into something special. So, get cooking and let your imagination run wild!