Name: Hibiscus Bliss Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cup Whole Wheat or Plain White Flour; 1/4 cup Dried Hibiscus Flower Powder (plus 1 teaspoon for frosting); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 3 medium Eggs; 3/4 cup Milk; 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt; 1/2 cup Honey or Light Unrefined Muscovado Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 250 grams Mascarpone or Soft Cream Cheese; 1/3 cup Agave or Maple Syrup; 180 ml Double Cream; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for frosting)

Why You’ll Love Hibiscus Bliss Cake Recipe

Beautiful natural color from hibiscus
Light, floral flavor that’s not too sweet
Uses wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and Greek yogurt
Versatile frosting options
Impressive presentation with minimal effort
Moist and fluffy texture
Refined sugar alternatives like honey or muscovado
Unique and memorable flavor profile
Easy to make with basic kitchen tools
Perfect for spring, summer, or celebrations

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole wheat or plain white flour
Dried hibiscus flower powder
Baking powder
Salt
Baking soda
Eggs
Milk
Greek yogurt
Honey or light unrefined muscovado brown sugar
Vanilla extract

For the Frosting:
Mascarpone or soft cream cheese
Agave or maple syrup
Double cream
Vanilla extract
Hibiscus powder (for color and flavor)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F) and line your baking tin.
Grind dried hibiscus flowers into a fine powder if using whole dried flowers.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, hibiscus powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, milk, yogurt, honey or sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients just until a smooth batter forms.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin.
Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, whip the double cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the cream cheese or mascarpone, vanilla extract, sweetener, and 1 teaspoon of hibiscus powder.
Once the cake is fully cooled, frost generously and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 to 10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cooling & Frosting Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy lift.
Replace the double cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free frosting.
Use beetroot powder along with hibiscus for deeper color.
Make it a layered cake by doubling the recipe and baking in two pans.
Add chopped pistachios on top for extra crunch.
Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty note.
Skip frosting and dust with powdered sugar for a simpler look.
Add rose water to enhance the floral profile.
Use flavored yogurt like vanilla or berry for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Hibiscus Bliss Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If unfrosted, it can be kept at room temperature for 2 days. To reheat individual slices, microwave for about 10 seconds (without frosting) to slightly warm the cake. Frosted cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—avoid reheating the frosting.

FAQs

What does hibiscus taste like in a cake?

Hibiscus has a subtle tart and floral flavor, similar to cranberries with a light floral note, which adds complexity to the cake without overpowering it.

Can I use fresh hibiscus instead of dried powder?

It’s best to use dried hibiscus powder or grind dried petals. Fresh hibiscus may contain too much moisture and affect the texture of the cake.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based yogurt and milk, and choose vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the frosting.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, the cake is mildly sweet due to honey or muscovado sugar, balanced by the tanginess of yogurt and the floral hibiscus notes.

What size baking tin should I use?

An 8-inch round or square tin works well for this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving. Store both components separately if possible.

Why is my cake not pink enough?

The natural color of hibiscus can vary. Using finely ground hibiscus powder and not overbaking helps retain the color.

Can I freeze the cake?

You can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting and serving.

What can I use instead of mascarpone?

Soft cream cheese is a perfect substitute for mascarpone in this frosting.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s mildly sweet, free of artificial colors, and can be made with wholesome ingredients, making it a great option for children.

Conclusion

The Hibiscus Bliss Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that stands out with its natural pink hue and delicate flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply exploring new flavors, this cake is a delightful choice that combines wholesome ingredients with elegant presentation. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.