Sarah BrownA delightful afternoon gathering, laughter in the air, the sun shining, and a slice of Vanilla Purple Cake in front of you. What complements this striking dessert?
A glass of chilled lemonade or a fragrant mint-infused iced tea seems perfect to cleanse the palate. Perhaps some fresh berries on the side or a scoop of lemon sorbet to brighten the flavors?
Now picture music playing softly in the background, a charming picnic blanket spread beneath a shady tree, and this gorgeous cake as the centerpiece.
The taste of vibrant vanilla and tart lemon, mingling beautifully with the surroundings—you’ve got a celebration on your hands!
If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that combines uniqueness and classic flavors, look no further than Vanilla Purple Cake with Lemon Buttercream. It’s not just any cake; it’s a delightful mix that catches the eye and piques the taste buds.
Why does this cake deserve a spot at your table? Stick around, and I’ll share all the tips, tricks, and insights that make this culinary creation a winner!
What is Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream?
At first glance, this cake may appear to be an ordinary dessert. It’s anything but. This cake is a stunning blend of moist vanilla sponge colored elegantly with violet gel. Topped with a zesty lemon buttercream that offers a harmonic contrast, it’s a cake that truly stands out at any gathering.
The vibrant hue of the purple cake captures attention, while the bright cream frosting invites sweet anticipation. It’s the perfect way to celebrate special occasions, or simply to indulge on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
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What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream?
The distinction of this Vanilla Purple Cake lies in its use of high-quality ingredients and the artistic touch with food coloring. Most vanilla cakes don’t venture into the realm of bold colors, but this recipe stands out brilliantly.
Not to mention, the incorporation of almond extract and real vanilla pods enhances the depth of flavor. The lemon buttercream adds a refreshing twist, rather than the conventional sweet frostings that often mask a cake’s true flavor.
This cake doesn’t just taste great—it delivers a visual treat that sparks joy even before the first bite!
How Does It Taste Like?
Now, let’s talk taste. The first thing you’ll notice is the rich vanilla flavor that envelops your senses. It’s not just sweet; it’s nuanced and layered.
As your palate dances with the soft texture of the cake, the creamy buttercream introduces zesty notes of lemon, balancing everything out.
Imagine each forkful offering a harmonious interplay of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of taste that lingers pleasantly, leaving you wanting another slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Vanilla Violet Cake:
2½ cups granulated white sugar
4½ cups plain all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting pans
Seeds from 2 vanilla pods or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 sticks unsalted European-style butter
1½ tablespoons baking powder, sifted
15 drops violet gel food coloring
6 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon almond extract
1½ cups heavy whipping cream or full-fat whole milk
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
Zest of 1 small lemon
Lemon Blackberry Buttercream:
1 pint fresh blackberries
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
4-6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
4-6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans
Start with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure an easy release after baking. Use parchment paper lining for an extra security measure.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Set aside while you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The texture should look creamy and pale in color. Inclusion of the vanilla seeds or extract occurs here.
Step 4: Add in the Eggs
Gradually add the eggs one by one, ensuring each egg is incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the airy texture of your batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Now, pour in the cream (or milk) and add the almond extract and lemon zest. Mix until combined.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Step 7: Introduce the Violet Coloring
Using a spatula, fold in the violet gel food coloring. Start small and gradually add more until you achieve your desired purple hue.
Step 8: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter equally into the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. You can check for doneness using the toothpick test—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Step 9: Cool Down
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Make the Lemon Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in lemon juice and zest until it reaches your desired consistency and flavor.
Step 11: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of lemon buttercream on top, and then carefully place the second layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.
Step 12: Decorate
Feel free to add fresh blackberries on top and around the cake for a pop of color and flavor!
Tips & Tricks On Making Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh butter and pure vanilla extract will elevate your flavor profile significantly.
- Room Temperature Eggs: They blend more smoothly, leading to a fluffier cake.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Ensure your cakes are fully cooled before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding.
- Adjust Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Nutrition Information
Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
To keep your Vanilla Purple Cake with Lemon Buttercream fresh, slice any extras and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to prolong deliciousness, consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers. Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
Thaw them either in the fridge overnight or leave them out at room temperature before frosting.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream?
- Gluten-Free Flour: Most gluten-free all-purpose flour blends work great. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
- Coconut Oil: Swap out butter for melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option that adds a unique flavor.
- Agave Syrup or Honey: Use these in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option. A little experimentation may be needed for texture.
- Different Extracts: Besides almond, try a splash of orange or lemon extract to change things up.
- Fruit Purees: Swap the blackberries with pureed strawberries or other berries for a completely different buttercream flavor.
Vanilla Purple Cake With Lemon Buttercream Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
Vanilla Violet Cake:
- 2½ cups granulated white sugar
- 4½ cups plain all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting pans
- Seeds from 2 vanilla pods or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 sticks unsalted European-style butter
- 1½ tablespoons baking powder sifted
- 15 drops violet gel food coloring
- 6 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream or full-fat whole milk
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- Zest of 1 small lemon
Lemon Blackberry Buttercream:
- 1 pint fresh blackberries
- 2 sticks unsalted butter softened
- 4-6 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 4-6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans
- Start with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure an easy release after baking. Use parchment paper lining for an extra security measure.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Set aside while you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The texture should look creamy and pale in color. Inclusion of the vanilla seeds or extract occurs here.
Step 4: Add in the Eggs
- Gradually add the eggs one by one, ensuring each egg is incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the airy texture of your batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- Now, pour in the cream (or milk) and add the almond extract and lemon zest. Mix until combined.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Step 7: Introduce the Violet Coloring
- Using a spatula, fold in the violet gel food coloring. Start small and gradually add more until you achieve your desired purple hue.
Step 8: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter equally into the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. You can check for doneness using the toothpick test—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Step 9: Cool Down
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Make the Lemon Buttercream
- In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in lemon juice and zest until it reaches your desired consistency and flavor.
Step 11: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of lemon buttercream on top, and then carefully place the second layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.
Step 12: Decorate
- Feel free to add fresh blackberries on top and around the cake for a pop of color and flavor!
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh butter and pure vanilla extract will elevate your flavor profile significantly.
- Room Temperature Eggs: They blend more smoothly, leading to a fluffier cake.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Ensure your cakes are fully cooled before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding.
- Adjust Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different flavor for the buttercream?
Absolutely! While lemon pairs beautifully, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or orange. Just make sure to adjust sweetness accordingly.
2. Is it necessary to use fresh berries for decoration?
Though they add visual appeal and flavor, they’re not a must. You can use edible flowers, candied citrus peel, or colored sprinkles instead.
3. How can I make this cake vegan-friendly?
Substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use plant-based butter, and swap cream for non-dairy milk. The result will still be delicious.
4. Can I bake the cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! Just remember to properly store the un-frosted layers in an airtight container. Frost closer to when you’ll serve it for the best taste.
5. What if I don’t have violet gel food coloring?
You can use natural coloring alternatives like beet juice or leave it out entirely. The flavor will still shine through; just keep it classic vanilla.
Conclusion
In the grand tapestry of desserts, Vanilla Purple Cake with Lemon Buttercream holds a unique position. Its stunning appearance, delightful flavor, and simple preparation make it an ideal choice for any event.
This cake is more than just a treat; it’s a conversation starter, a centerpiece, and a flavor explosion all in one.
So whether you’re celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a casual afternoon, this cake promises to deliver joy, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your table. Don’t wait; gather your ingredients and experience the magic for yourself!
