Hosting a Spring Easter Dinner Celebration

As the days lengthen and flowers bloom, it’s the perfect time to gather loved ones for a delightful Spring Easter dinner celebration. Whether you’re hosting a small intimate gathering or a larger affair, creating a memorable experience for your guests is key. In this post, we’ll explore how to set the scene for a festive Easter dinner and share my delectable recipe for a layered blackberry lemon cake that’s sure to impress. Shop everything in this post here.

Setting the Scene:
Start by setting a charming table adorned with unique glassware, fresh flowers, and spring candles. Incorporate elements of nature such as floral ice, greenery, and rustic wooden accents to create a whimsical ambiance. Consider adding personalized touches like hand-written place cards or Easter-themed centerpieces to make your guests feel extra special. Here are all the beautiful items I used in the pictured easter dinner setting:

Easter Menu:
Crafting a mouthwatering menu is essential for any dinner party. Begin with light appetizers such as deviled eggs, spring salads, and smoked salmon crostini to whet the appetite. For the main course, showcase classic Easter dishes like honey-glazed ham, roasted lamb, or herb-crusted chicken alongside seasonal sides such as roasted asparagus, buttered carrots, and creamy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to include vegetarian options to accommodate all dietary preferences. For the cherry on top, create a beautiful layered spring cake, adorned with edible pressed flowers.

Recipe: Layered Lemon Cake with Buttercream and Blackberry Compote

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Buttercream frosting (store-bought or homemade)
• Blackberry compote (store-bought or homemade)
• Edible pressed flowers for decoration

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract, until fully combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top. Add a layer of blackberry compote on top of the frosting.
10. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, frosting, and compote.
11. Finish by icing the entire cake with buttercream frosting and decorating with edible pressed flowers. To attach the flowers, dip them in warm water, and then immediately press them into the icing.
12. Refrigerate until you are ready to serve!

With a beautifully set table, a delicious menu, and a stunning layered lemon cake as the centerpiece, your Spring Easter dinner celebration is sure to be a hit. Embrace the joy of the season and create lasting memories with family and friends gathered around the table. Happy Easter!