Floral cakes can easily become too perfumed. Here, vanilla remains the main flavour, while rose appears quietly in the background and lychee brings freshness between the layers.
Start with a light vanilla sponge and let it cool completely. Fill each layer with softly whipped cream, chopped lychee and only a small amount of rose syrup. Finish with a thin coat of buttercream and a simple piped border. It is delicate without being fussy, and especially lovely for birthdays, afternoon tea or any table that needs a small reason to celebrate.
