▷ What You Need To Know About Baking With Lavender?

Lavender is not just a pretty flower, it is also a delicious ingredient that can bring its unique flavor to baked goods. Using lavender in baking can add a floral and slightly sweet taste to your desserts, but it does require some knowledge and skills. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about baking with lavender, including how to prepare it, what recipes to use, and the various dos and don’ts.

What is lavender?

Lavender is a type of plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes. Lavender has a delicate flavor that is both floral and herbaceous, with a hint of bitterness.

How to use lavender in baking

When using lavender in baking, it’s important to keep in mind that a little goes a long way. Too much lavender can result in an overwhelming taste that can ruin your recipe. Here are some tips on how to use lavender in baking:

Choose the right type of lavender

There are many different varieties of lavender, but not all of them are suitable for culinary use. English lavender is the most commonly used type of lavender for cooking and baking. Make sure to use only the flowers of the lavender plant, not the stems.

Use dried lavender flowers

Fresh lavender flowers can be used in cooking, but they tend to have a stronger flavor than dried flowers. Dried lavender flowers are easier to find and can be stored for a long time.

Infuse lavender into other ingredients

One way to use lavender in baking is to infuse it into other ingredients, such as milk or sugar. This will give your dessert a subtle lavender flavor without overpowering it.

Use lavender as a topping

Lavender flowers can be used as a topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts. Just sprinkle a few lavender flowers on top of your dessert for a pretty and aromatic garnish.

What recipes to use with lavender

Lavender can be used in a variety of desserts, from cakes and cupcakes to scones and shortbread cookies. Here are some popular lavender dessert recipes:

Lavender honey cake

This moist and fragrant cake is made with lavender-infused honey and topped with a creamy and tangy mascarpone frosting.

Lavender shortbread cookies

These buttery and crumbly cookies are infused with dried lavender flowers, giving them a subtle floral aroma.

Lavender lemon bars

These zesty and sweet bars are made with lavender-infused sugar and topped with a tart lemon curd.

What to avoid when baking with lavender

While lavender can be a great addition to your baked goods, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid any mishaps:

Avoid using too much lavender

As mentioned earlier, lavender has a strong flavor that can easily overpower your recipe. Use it sparingly, and taste as you go to make sure you’re not adding too much.

Avoid using lavender oil

While lavender oil may seem like an easy way to add lavender flavor to your desserts, it can be dangerous to consume. Lavender oil is meant for external use only and should not be ingested.

Conclusion

Baking with lavender can take your desserts to the next level, but it requires some knowledge and caution. Choose the right type of lavender, use it sparingly, and infuse it into other ingredients for the best results. With these tips and some creativity, you can create delicious lavender desserts that will impress your guests.

Related Products:

Last update 2023-06-07. Price and product availability may change.

What You Need To Know About Baking With Lavender?