Get ready to delight your taste buds with this stunning Hibiscus Bliss Cake!

1. Make the hibiscus syrup (optional): If you’d like to enhance the hibiscus flavor, bring the water and sugar to a simmer in a small saucepan. Add the dried hibiscus flowers, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. Strain out the flowers and let the syrup cool. Set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. Make the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the hibiscus flavor: If you’re using hibiscus tea leaves, steep them in hot water for about 5 minutes, then strain out the leaves. Add the tea or hibiscus powder to the cake batter. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. If you’re using hibiscus syrup, fold it into the batter at this point.
5. Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the hibiscus frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and hibiscus syrup for color and flavor. Add food coloring if you want a more vibrant pink hue.
7. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of hibiscus frosting. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
8. Serve and enjoy: Decorate with edible flowers, a sprinkle of dried hibiscus petals, or fresh fruit to add to the floral theme. Slice and enjoy the refreshing, floral flavor of this Hibiscus Bliss Cake!

This cake is not only stunning to look at but also bursting with the unique, vibrant flavor of hibiscus. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings or any occasion where you want a showstopper dessert! Would you like to add a hint of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to complement the hibiscus flavor?