Lavender Almond Cake

This is a nice change from some of the more traditional cakes, especially for the holidays when after a large meal all you want is a taste of something sweet but are really too full for a big dessert.  It is made from a gluten free baking mix that is so easy you will find yourself using it often, and with the frosting also from a mix its a snap to put together. I use some of the chopper slivered almonds in the frosting and as a garnish, giving the cake a look good enough for a party yet still keeping it simple.

Using some pretty fruit gives a nice color contrast.

Recipe:

1 Package gluten free lavender cake mix plus 1/4 teaspoon almond extract. 

Mix and bake according to the manufacturer's directions. 

when cool, slice in half horizontally to give you two layers.

1 Package gluten free vanilla frosting mix.  

Make according to directions for plain or cream cheese version as desired.

Add 1/2 cup finely chopped slivered almonds.

Frost first layer with frosting, cover with second layer and frost top and sides of cake.  Sprinkle with additional whole slivered almonds and fruit to serve.

Makes 1 round 9" cake 

For information on the gluten free cake and frosting mix used in this recipe visit:www.glutenfreebakingmixes.com