A light and fragrant cake that celebrates the fresh, tangy flavor of rhubarb paired with the delicate floral notes of elderflower. Perfect for spring gatherings or a weekend treat, this moist and tender cake is easy to make and sure to impress.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 250g rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 2cm chunks
• 3 tbsp elderflower cordial
• 200g unsalted butter, softened
• 200g golden caster sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 200g self-raising flour
• 50g ground almonds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp milk

1.For the drizzle:

• 3 tbsp elderflower cordial
• 100g icing sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas 4. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin with baking paper.
2. In a bowl, toss the rhubarb with 3 tbsp elderflower cordial. Set aside to marinate while preparing the batter.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Fold in the self-raising flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and lemon zest.
6. Stir in the milk, then gently fold in most of the marinated rhubarb (reserve a handful for topping).
7. Pour the batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top. Scatter the remaining rhubarb on top.
8. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. While the cake is still warm, mix the drizzle ingredients together and spoon over the cake.
10. Let the cake cool in the tin before removing and serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugars: 27g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.3g

The Role of Rhubarb in Baking

Rhubarb is often treated as a fruit in dessert recipes, but botanically, it’s a vegetable. Its natural tartness adds a sharp contrast to sweet baked goods, making it a popular choice for pies, crumbles, and cakes. In this cake, rhubarb not only adds flavor but also contributes to moisture and texture, softening as it bakes while maintaining its distinctive tang.

Understanding Elderflower’s Delicate Flavor

Elderflower is known for its floral, slightly citrusy aroma and is commonly used in cordials and syrups. It brings a subtle elegance to desserts, pairing especially well with fruits like rhubarb, strawberries, and apples. In this cake, elderflower is used both in the batter and in the drizzle to infuse the entire cake with its light, refreshing essence.

The Science Behind a Moist Cake Texture

The combination of self-raising flour, ground almonds, and baking powder helps to create a light and fluffy texture while maintaining moisture. Ground almonds in particular help retain moisture in the cake, making it tender and preventing it from drying out after baking.

Butter and Sugar: The Creaming Method

Creaming butter and sugar together introduces air into the batter, which aids in the rising process. This method is essential for achieving a soft crumb in sponge cakes. The lightness achieved through this method balances the density that rhubarb may introduce.

Importance of Layering Flavors

The interplay of tart rhubarb, floral elderflower, and zesty lemon gives this cake a layered flavor profile. Each bite offers a different combination of tastes, keeping the palate engaged and elevating the cake from simple to sophisticated.

Seasonality and Ingredient Sourcing

This cake highlights spring and early summer ingredients, especially fresh rhubarb and elderflower cordial, which are at their peak during this time. Using seasonal ingredients not only ensures better flavor but also supports sustainable, local farming practices.

Using Cordial in Baking

Elderflower cordial is an easy way to add flavor without overpowering the dish. It blends smoothly into the batter and is also effective as a drizzle once the cake is baked. The syrup seeps into the sponge, adding extra flavor and moisture.

Cake Presentation and Garnishing Ideas

Presentation can elevate the appeal of any baked dish. For this cake, garnishing with a dusting of icing sugar, edible flowers, or lemon zest curls adds visual interest. Some bakers even top it with thin rhubarb ribbons or glaze to give it a gourmet finish.

Texture Contrast Between Crumb and Fruit

The soft cake crumb contrasts beautifully with the slightly firm, juicy rhubarb chunks. This textural difference enhances the eating experience, creating a pleasant mouthfeel that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Pairing with Beverages

This cake pairs wonderfully with light teas such as chamomile, jasmine, or green tea. For those looking for a more indulgent experience, a glass of prosecco or a dry white wine with floral notes makes an excellent match.

Storage and Shelf Life

Rhubarb & elderflower cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, refrigerating the cake is an option, though it’s best brought back to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor.

Adapting the Recipe for Special Diets

The recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free baking blend and adding xanthan gum for structure. For dairy-free versions, use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative.

The Cultural Appeal of Floral Cakes

Floral cakes have seen a rise in popularity due to their unique and elegant profiles. Elderflower, in particular, gained fame after it was used in the royal wedding cake of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, which boosted its demand in baking communities.

The Role of Lemon Zest in Enhancing Flavors

Though used in a small amount, lemon zest plays a significant role in balancing sweetness and enhancing the flavor of elderflower. The citrus oils brighten the entire cake, giving it a fresh and lively note.

How Baking Powder Affects Rise

The inclusion of baking powder in addition to self-raising flour ensures a more reliable rise. This double-action leavening agent helps the cake rise initially when mixed and again when heated, resulting in a well-shaped sponge.

Incorporating Rhubarb Without Sogginess

One concern with adding fresh rhubarb to batter is excess moisture. This recipe overcomes that by marinating the rhubarb in cordial, allowing it to release some juice before being folded into the batter, reducing the risk of a soggy crumb.

Why Ground Almonds Add More Than Flavor

Aside from the nutty undertone they contribute, ground almonds enhance the cake’s structure and help trap moisture, leading to a tender but firm cake that slices cleanly and holds up well over time.

Tips for Perfect Baking

To ensure even baking, make sure your oven is properly preheated and the batter is spread evenly in the tin. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause the cake to sink. Testing with a skewer is the best way to check for doneness.

Popular Occasions to Serve Rhubarb & Elderflower Cake

This cake is an excellent choice for spring brunches, tea parties, baby showers, garden events, and Easter celebrations. Its light and floral flavor make it ideal for daytime events and lighter occasions where a rich dessert might feel too heavy.

Conclusion

Rhubarb & elderflower cake is more than just a seasonal dessert—it’s a celebration of delicate, nuanced flavors and careful ingredient pairing. The tang of rhubarb, the perfumed hint of elderflower, and the zest of lemon all come together to form a dessert that’s elegant, flavorful, and memorable. Its balance of textures, thoughtful construction, and visual charm make it a standout addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this cake delivers both comfort and sophistication with every slice.