Baking with Lavender

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Baking with Lavender: Recipes and Tips

Introduction

Lavender is an aromatic herb known for its delicate floral notes, making it a unique and delightful addition to various baked goods. Baking with lavender can add an elegant twist to both sweet and savory recipes. In this blog post, we’ll explore some delicious recipes and handy tips for baking with lavender, helping you create aromatic and flavorful treats.

Key Takeaways

  • Unique Flavor: Lavender adds a subtle floral note to baked goods.
  • Versatile Ingredient: Suitable for both sweet and savory recipes.
  • Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and promotes relaxation.
  • Simple to Use: Easy to incorporate into your favorite baking recipes.

Recipes for Baking with Lavender

1. Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour, dried lavender, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  7. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Lemon Lavender Pound Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and dried lavender.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  6. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Lavender Honey Scones

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in the dried lavender.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
  6. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together.
  8. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into wedges.
  9. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. Serve warm, drizzled with additional honey if desired.

Tips for Baking with Lavender

  1. Use Culinary Lavender: Ensure you use culinary-grade lavender, as some lavender can be treated with chemicals.
  2. Use Sparingly: Lavender has a strong flavor, so use it sparingly to avoid overpowering your baked goods.
  3. Grind for Finer Texture: For a finer texture, grind dried lavender buds using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder before adding to recipes.
  4. Pair with Citrus: Lavender pairs beautifully with citrus flavors like lemon and orange, adding a refreshing contrast.
  5. Infuse Syrups and Creams: Infuse lavender into syrups, creams, or butter for a subtle and even distribution of flavor.
  6. Store Properly: Store dried lavender in an airtight container away from light and heat to maintain its potency.

Conclusion

Baking with lavender is a wonderful way to add unique flavors and aromas to your dishes. Whether you’re making shortbread cookies, pound cake, or scones, lavender can elevate your baking to new heights. Try these recipes and tips to incorporate this aromatic herb into your baking repertoire, and enjoy the elegant and delicious results.