OK, OK. It's not an impressionist cake by any means. Last month, I visited Monet's famous waterlily garden and house in Giverny and was floored by their beauty. There were so many different types of colorful flowers and plant species – it felt like paradise!

The visit inspired me to use flowers in my next cake, like this chocolate cake with lavender-lemon berries. It was a birthday cake for a friend and I chose calla lillies as a tribute to Monet. I found these beautiful purple-colored ones that matched my frosting perfectly. With a touch of mint for some green, it's simply elegant.