The gentle aroma of cherry blossoms wafts through the air, transforming an ordinary kitchen into a floral wonderland. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cherry Blossom Cake—an enchanting dessert that captures the spirit of spring in every bite. This delightful vegetarian treat is not only visually stunning with its soft pink hue, but it also brings a touch of elegance to any table. The best part? This cake is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and those busy weeknights when a sweet craving strikes. With its unique floral flavor and light texture, you’re bound to impress family and friends. What will you pair with this lovely cake, green tea or perhaps a refreshing fruit salad?

Why is Cherry Blossom Cake so special?

Delicate Floral Flavor: The subtle essence of cherry blossoms elevates the cake’s taste, offering a unique twist that’s truly enchanting.

Eye-Catching Presentation: Its lovely pink hue is a showstopper, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration or gathering.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for efficiency, allowing you to whip up a stunning dessert with minimal fuss, ideal for busy evenings.

Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it with a cup of green tea or alongside fruit salads for a complete dessert experience that everyone will appreciate! For a delightful twist, consider how you might use this cake in a layered trifle—just like with my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu.

Vegetarian Delight: Perfect for vegetarians and anyone seeking a lighter option, your guests will be charmed by this elegant treat.

Add this unforgettable dessert to your repertoire and share it with loved ones; they’ll surely be asking for seconds!

Cherry Blossom Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Cake Flour – Provides the structure and tenderness crucial for this Cherry Blossom Cake. Substitution: Almond flour can be used for a gluten-free version, but expect a denser texture.
• Cornstarch – Lightens the flour to create a delicate crumb.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents that help the cake achieve the perfect rise.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of your cake.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the batter.
• Unsalted Butter – Brings richness and a lovely buttery flavor. Ensure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
• Eggs (Large) – Binds the mixture and contributes to the cake’s lift. Use room temperature eggs for the best results.
• Plain Yogurt (Whole Milk) – Helps keep the cake moist and adds a touch of flavor.
• Whole Milk – Adds extra moisture for a silky batter.
• Cherry Blossom Syrup – Infuses the cake with a beautiful floral flavor and a hint of sweetness.
• Pickled Cherry Blossom Petals – Introduces a unique cardiopulmonary flavor and elevates the visual appeal. Rinse and chop finely before incorporating.
• Matcha Powder – Adds earthy notes and a striking green color contrast.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base for a luscious and rich frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a perfect spread.
• Cherry Blossom Honey – Enhances the floral notes in the frosting, making it truly delightful.
• Gelatin Powder – Stabilizes the frosting, ensuring a smooth, flawless finish.
• Cold Water – Needed to bloom the gelatin before mixing it into the frosting.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blossom Cake

Step 1: Prepare Cherry Blossoms
Start by rinsing the pickled cherry blossom petals under cold water to remove excess salt. Soak them for 10 minutes, then finely chop the petals and set them aside. This step is essential for incorporating their delicate flavor into your Cherry Blossom Cake, giving it that enchanting floral aroma you’ll love.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of cake flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This combination ensures a light and airy structure for the cake. For added color and depth, mix in 1 tablespoon of matcha powder. Whisk until evenly blended and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together in a large bowl for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air into the batter, helping the Cherry Blossom Cake rise beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, add ½ cup of plain yogurt and ¼ cup of cherry blossom syrup, stirring until everything is just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, ready for the next step.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with ½ cup of whole milk. Begin with a portion of the dry mix, then add some milk, repeating until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain light and airy for that perfect Cherry Blossom Cake texture.

Step 6: Bake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to fully cool.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting
In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of gelatin powder in 2 tablespoons of cold water; let it bloom for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, beat 8 oz of cream cheese and ¼ cup of unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of cherry blossom honey, then add the bloomed gelatin mixture, blending until creamy.

Step 8: Assemble Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then carefully place the second layer on top. Frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides with a spatula. Don’t forget to give it a smooth finish, as this Cherry Blossom Cake deserves to look as beautiful as it tastes!

Step 9: Decorate
To give your Cherry Blossom Cake a stunning final touch, garnish the top with whole cherry blossom petals or edible flowers. You can also sprinkle a bit of matcha powder for a pop of color. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cherry Blossom Cake: Creative Twists Await

Feel free to explore exciting variations that will make your Cherry Blossom Cake even more delightful and uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for cake flour to create a gluten-free option. Keep in mind, the texture will be denser, but the flavors remain enchanting.
Zesty Addition: Add the zest of 1 lemon to the batter for a fresh, zesty kick that beautifully contrasts the floral notes. It’s a vibrant twist that will awaken your senses!
Other Edible Flowers: Experiment with edible flowers like violets or lavender for decoration, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. The cake transforms into a garden, offering a bouquet of tastes.
Layered Delight: Use your cake layers in a trifle or parfait! Alternate between layers of cake, matcha mousse, or even yuzu jelly for an exciting, multi-textural experience that will impress your guests.
Frosting Flare: Swap out cream cheese for whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free frosting option. This twist keeps the frosting light while adding a unique flavor profile that complements the floral cake perfectly.
Sweet Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the frosting for a surprising heat that contrasts the sweetness. It’s a daring move that could have everyone coming back for more!

For additional ideas, check out my recipes for delightful layered desserts like my Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu or incorporate some of the textures and flavors from my Coconut Cake Cheese. Get ready to create your masterpiece!

What to Serve with Cherry Blossom Cake

Create a memorable dining experience by pairing this floral delight with a few complementary flavors and textures.

Green Tea: The gentle, earthy notes of green tea enhance the floral essence of the cherry blossom cake, creating a harmonious pairing.
Jasmine Tea: With its fragrant aroma, jasmine tea offers a sweet and floral contrast that highlights the cake’s unique flavors.
Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of strawberries, kiwis, and melons provides vibrant color and adds a refreshing tartness, balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Steamed Edamame: The slight nuttiness of edamame offers a savory touch to contrast the delicate sweetness of the cake. It’s a surprising and delightful accompaniment.
Yuzu Sorbet: This tart and tangy sorbet provides a refreshing cleanse between bites, enhancing the overall flavor experience of the meal.
Chocolate Mousse: For a richer dessert option, the light texture of chocolate mousse can add a decadent twist, indulging those with a sweet tooth while keeping the overall experience balanced.
Matcha Latte: This creamy, earthy drink pairs beautifully with the light, floral tones of the cake, creating a delightful and sophisticated beverage choice.

Enjoy mixing and matching any of these fantastic pairings to elevate your cherry blossom cake experience!

Expert Tips for Cherry Blossom Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter and promotes even baking.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and airy texture desired in your Cherry Blossom Cake.
Gelatin Blooming: Always bloom the gelatin in cold water before mixing it into the frosting. This prevents a grainy texture and ensures a silky-smooth finish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cherry blossom petals and syrup. Stale or low-quality ingredients can diminish the floral notes in your cake.
Proper Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blossom Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 2 days. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat.

Fridge: If you plan to store the cake longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while helping retain its fluffy texture.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating: If enjoyed cold is not your preference, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving, allowing the flavors to come alive once more in this delightful Cherry Blossom Cake.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Blossom Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during meal prep! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Just allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain their moisture. Additionally, you can prepare the frosting 24 hours ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the chilled layers and garnish with cherry blossom petals. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal effort, ready just in time for your special occasion!

Cherry Blossom Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cake flour should I use for the Cherry Blossom Cake?
For the best results in your Cherry Blossom Cake, I recommend using high-quality cake flour, which provides the necessary structure and tenderness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute almond flour, but do keep in mind that the resulting texture will be denser than the original recipe.

How should I store my Cherry Blossom Cake?
To maintain its delightful freshness, store your Cherry Blossom Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, snugly wrap it and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, the cake retains its moist texture and lovely floral flavor!

Can I freeze the Cherry Blossom Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Blossom Cake, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This protects it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight.

What should I do if my Cherry Blossom Cake is too dense?
If your Cherry Blossom Cake turns out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. To prevent this, make sure you mix only until combined, and ensure all dairy products are at room temperature before you begin. Light, gentle folding will help create that airy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets with your Cherry Blossom Cake?
It’s essential to note that while cherry blossoms are safe for humans, they can be toxic to pets, especially if consumed in large quantities. Always keep this delightful Cherry Blossom Cake out of reach of your furry friends and ensure that any ingredient you use is safe for them.

How long should I chill the cake after frosting before serving?
Chilling the frosted Cherry Blossom Cake for at least one hour allows the flavors to meld and helps the frosting set nicely. This ensures your cake looks beautiful and tastes even better when you serve it, creating a perfect treat that everyone will adore!