Have you ever wished you could capture the beauty of cherry blossoms in a dessert? A cherry blossom cake does just that—light, delicate, and infused with subtle floral notes, it’s a treat that feels as enchanting as a stroll through blooming sakura trees. With its soft vanilla sponge, a hint of sakura essence, and a dreamy whipped cream frosting, this cake is perfect for spring gatherings, tea parties, or simply indulging in something special.
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese-inspired desserts or just looking to try something new, this cake offers endless possibilities. Pair it with matcha, add a touch of sakura syrup, or decorate with edible cherry blossoms for an elegant finish. However you make it, one thing’s for sure—it’s a slice of springtime bliss you won’t forget!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Blossom Cake
A cherry blossom cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Inspired by the delicate beauty of sakura season, this cake combines a soft, vanilla sponge with subtle floral notes, creating a light and elegant treat perfect for any occasion.
Key Benefits of This Recipe
Light & Airy Texture – The delicate crumb melts in your mouth, making every bite irresistibly soft.
Subtle Floral Flavor – A touch of sakura essence adds a unique and elegant taste without overpowering.
Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for birthdays, tea parties, or a beautiful springtime celebration cake.
Customizable & Versatile – Pair it with matcha, buttercream frosting, or fresh edible cherry blossoms for a personal touch.
Stunning Presentation – With its soft pink hue and delicate decorations, this cake is as breathtaking as it is delicious.
If you love Japanese-inspired desserts or simply want to bake something unique, this cake is a must-try. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!
Ingredients for the Perfect Cherry Blossom Cake
Before we dive into baking, let’s gather everything you need to create this light and floral masterpiece. Using quality ingredients ensures a cake that’s soft, flavorful, and beautifully aromatic.
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups cake flour – Keeps the sponge light and airy.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Adds just the right balance for a fluffy texture.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness while keeping the cake tender.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping create a moist crumb.
- 4 large egg whites – Keeps the cake delicate and soft.
- 1 cup whole milk – Ensures moisture and tenderness.
- 1 ½ tsp cherry blossom extract (sakura essence) – Infuses a gentle floral flavor.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the sweet and floral notes.
- Pink food coloring (optional) – Gives the cake a soft, cherry blossom hue.
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The base for a smooth, creamy texture.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and stability.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream – Creates a silky-smooth frosting.
- 1 tsp cherry blossom extract – Carries the floral flavor into the frosting.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness.
- Pink food coloring (optional) – For a soft pastel touch.
For Decoration (Optional but Recommended!):
- Edible cherry blossoms – Adds a stunning, authentic touch.
- Sakura syrup – A light drizzle enhances the floral flavor.
- White chocolate shavings – Complements the delicate flavors beautifully.
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to turn them into a beautifully fragrant, soft, and elegant cherry blossom cake! Let’s get baking.
How to Make Cherry Blossom Cake
Baking a Cherry Blossom Cake is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with delicate floral aromas and results in a breathtakingly beautiful dessert. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a cake that’s as delicious as it is elegant.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Essentials
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease two 8-inch cake pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, and salt together, then set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Cream the butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Gradually add the eggs – one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.Stir in the vanilla extract and cherry blossom extract for that signature floral touch.
- Alternate dry and wet ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and cherry compote. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
- Add the color – If desired, stir in a few drops of pink food coloring for a soft, cherry blossom-inspired hue.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Whip the butter – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar – Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time.
- Mix in the vanilla extract – cherry blossom extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Adjust consistency – Add heavy cream or milk (one tablespoon at a time) until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cherry blossom frosting over the top.
- Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the entire cake, smoothing it with an offset spatula.
- Decorate with edible cherry blossoms, fresh cherries, or white chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Now, step back and admire your stunning Cherry Blossom Cake—a floral masterpiece that’s perfect for any special occasion!
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to take your Cherry Blossom Cake to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to ensure your cake is both delicious and visually stunning.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Cake
Use Cake Flour for a Light Texture – Cake flour creates a softer, more delicate crumb compared to all-purpose flour. If you don’t have any, make your own by replacing 2 tablespoons of flour with cornstarch per cup.
Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to keep it light and airy.
Enhance the Flavor Naturally – If you want a stronger cherry flavor, fold in finely chopped fresh cherries or a spoonful of cherry jam into the batter.
Chill the Cake Before Frosting – A slightly chilled cake is easier to frost and helps prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
Create a Smooth Finish – Run an offset spatula under hot water, then dry it before smoothing out the frosting for a professional look.
Delicious Variations to Try
Matcha Cherry Blossom Cake – Add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to the dry ingredients for a subtle earthy contrast to the cherry blossom flavor.
Cherry Blossom Layer Cake with Jam Filling – Spread a thin layer of cherry jam between the cake layers before frosting for extra fruitiness.
Vegan Cherry Blossom Cake – Replace butter with vegan butter, milk with almond or oat milk, and eggs with applesauce or flax eggs for a plant-based version.
Cherry Blossom Cupcakes – Divide the batter into a cupcake pan and bake for 18-20 minutes for perfectly portioned floral treats.
Ombre Cherry Blossom Cake – Use different intensities of pink food coloring in each cake layer for a beautiful gradient effect when sliced.
With these tips and variations, you can customize your Cherry Blossom Cake to match your personal taste and style. Whether you keep it classic or add a creative twist, this cake is sure to impress!
Serving Suggestions
Your Cherry Blossom Cake is a true showstopper, and the way you serve it can enhance both its presentation and flavor. Here are some creative ways to elevate your dessert experience:
Pairing Ideas for the Perfect Bite
With a Cup of Green Tea – The earthy notes of matcha or jasmine tea balance the delicate floral sweetness of the cake.
Alongside Fresh Berries – Serve with cherries, raspberries, or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
With a Glass of Sparkling Rosé – A lightly sweet rosé wine or cherry-infused cocktail adds elegance to special celebrations.
Presentation Tips for a Stunning Display
Garnish with Edible Flowers – Sakura petals, baby’s breath, or violets make for a naturally elegant touch.
Slice with a Warm Knife – Run a knife under hot water before slicing for clean, smooth cuts.
Dust with Powdered Sugar – A light dusting mimics cherry blossom petals in the spring breeze.
When to Serve This Cake
Birthdays & Celebrations – A unique and sophisticated alternative to traditional birthday cakes.
Afternoon Tea Parties – The perfect delicate treat for a springtime gathering.
Weddings & Bridal Showers – A beautiful cake for romantic and elegant occasions.
No matter how you serve it, this Cherry Blossom Cake is guaranteed to impress both in flavor and beauty. Take a moment to savor each bite—it’s like tasting spring in dessert form!
Conclusion
Baking a Cherry Blossom Cake is more than just making a dessert—it’s creating a delicate, floral-infused masterpiece that captures the beauty of spring in every bite. With its soft, airy texture, subtle sakura essence, and stunning pink hues, this cake is as elegant as it is delicious.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a bit of culinary creativity, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, with so many customizable variations, you can make it uniquely your own.
Now that you’ve mastered this breathtaking Cherry Blossom Cake, it’s time to share it! Snap a photo, tag your creation on social media, and enjoy every bite of this blossom-inspired delight. Happy baking!
Cherry Blossom Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups cake flour – Keeps the sponge light and airy.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Adds just the right balance for a fluffy texture.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened – Adds richness while keeping the cake tender.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping create a moist crumb.
- 4 large egg whites – Keeps the cake delicate and soft.
- 1 cup whole milk – Ensures moisture and tenderness.
- 1 ½ tsp cherry blossom extract sakura essence – Infuses a gentle floral flavor.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the sweet and floral notes.
- Pink food coloring optional – Gives the cake a soft, cherry blossom hue.
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened – The base for a smooth, creamy texture.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and stability.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream – Creates a silky-smooth frosting.
- 1 tsp cherry blossom extract – Carries the floral flavor into the frosting.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Balances the sweetness.
- Pink food coloring optional – For a soft pastel touch.
For Decoration (Optional but Recommended!):
- Edible cherry blossoms – Adds a stunning authentic touch.
- Sakura syrup – A light drizzle enhances the floral flavor.
- White chocolate shavings – Complements the delicate flavors beautifully.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Essentials
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease two 8-inch cake pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, and salt together, then set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Cream the butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Gradually add the eggs – one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.Stir in the vanilla extract and cherry blossom extract for that signature floral touch.
- Alternate dry and wet ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and cherry compote. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
- Add the color – If desired, stir in a few drops of pink food coloring for a soft, cherry blossom-inspired hue.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Whip the butter – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar – Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time.
- Mix in the vanilla extract – cherry blossom extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Adjust consistency – Add heavy cream or milk (one tablespoon at a time) until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cherry blossom frosting over the top.
- Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the entire cake, smoothing it with an offset spatula.
- Decorate with edible cherry blossoms, fresh cherries, or white chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about making the perfect Cherry Blossom Cake:
1. What does Cherry Blossom Cake taste like?
This cake has a light, floral flavor with subtle cherry notes. The combination of sakura essence, vanilla, and almond extract creates a delicate and elegant taste, perfect for those who enjoy mild, fragrant desserts.
2. Can I make this cake without cherry blossom extract?
Yes! While sakura extract gives the cake its signature floral touch, you can substitute it with a mix of almond extract and cherry juice for a similar flavor.
3. How can I naturally color the cake pink?
Instead of food coloring, try using:
Beet juice for a soft pink hue.
Cherry or raspberry puree for both color and added fruitiness.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to maintain the texture and structure.
5. What frosting pairs best with Cherry Blossom Cake?
Some great options include:
Cherry-infused buttercream for a richer, fruitier finish.
Whipped cream frosting for a light and airy texture.
White chocolate ganache for a creamy, indulgent twist.
6. How do I store Cherry Blossom Cake?
Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days, but let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Wrap unfrosted layers in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months.
7. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Yes! Pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.