Spiced Dandelion Nut Cake

Spiced Dandelion Nut Cake is a unique and flavorful dessert that combines the subtle floral notes of dandelion petals with warm spices and crunchy nuts. This easy spiced cake is moist, aromatic, and perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or holiday gatherings.

Dandelions aren’t just pretty—they’re edible and lend a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted nuts. The texture is soft and tender, while the topping of chopped nuts adds a satisfying crunch.

If you’re looking for a homemade floral cake recipe with a twist, this spiced dandelion nut cake delivers a memorable flavor experience without complex steps.

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Why Try Dandelion in Baking?

Dandelion petals have been used in traditional recipes for centuries. They add:

• Mild floral sweetness
• A hint of herbal earthiness
• Visual appeal in baked goods

In combination with warm spices, they elevate a standard nut cake into something special.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup fresh dandelion petals (washed and dried)
• Optional: powdered sugar for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

4. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

7. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Add Nuts and Dandelion Petals

8. Fold in chopped nuts and dandelion petals gently, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake

9. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
12. Optional: dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Spiced Dandelion Nut Cake

• Use fresh, tender dandelion petals for the best flavor.
• Toast nuts lightly for added crunch and depth.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
• For extra moistness, brush the baked cake lightly with simple syrup.

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Variations

• Citrus Infusion: Add orange zest to the batter for a bright note.
• Chocolate Swirl: Fold in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate chips.
• Glaze Option: Top with a simple lemon or vanilla glaze instead of powdered sugar.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for afternoon tea.
• Serve as a dessert with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Slice for brunch alongside fruit or yogurt.

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Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freeze slices individually for longer storage.

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Nutritional Highlights

• Provides fiber and healthy fats from nuts
• Contains moderate calories and natural sweetness from brown sugar
• Floral dandelion adds antioxidants and a unique flavor profile

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Final Thoughts

Spiced Dandelion Nut Cake is a charming dessert that combines the beauty and subtle flavor of edible flowers with warm spices and crunchy nuts. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Trying dandelion petals in baking opens up creative opportunities to elevate ordinary baked goods into memorable, aromatic experiences.