Lavender can be a delightful addition to baked goods, adding a unique and floral flavor to your creations. There are several ways to incorporate lavender into your baking, both with dried and fresh flowers.
One common way to use lavender in baking is by infusing it into sugar. This can be done by sealing six stems of lavender in an airtight container with granulated sugar for about a week. The lavender will release its oils and fragrance into the sugar, creating a lavender-infused sweetener. This infused sugar can then be used in various baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and even in tea or coffee.
In addition to infusing sugar, dried or fresh lavender flowers can be chopped up and directly added to your baked goods. When using dried lavender, it’s important to crush or grind the flowers slightly to release their aroma. This can easily be done by placing the flowers in a mortar and pestle or using a coffee grinder. The chopped or ground lavender can then be incorporated into your batter or dough for a subtle floral flavor.
Lavender pairs well with a range of flavors, particularly lemon and honey. Adding a touch of lavender to lemon bars, lemon cakes, or honey-infused pastries can elevate the flavors and create a unique and refreshing taste. The floral notes of lavender can also complement other herbs such as rosemary or thyme, adding depth to savory baked goods like bread or focaccia.
When using lavender in baking, it’s important to use it sparingly as its flavor can be quite potent. Too much lavender can overpower the other flavors in your baked goods and create an unpleasant taste. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way.
It’s worth noting that not all lavender varieties are suitable for culinary use. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and French lavender (Lavandula dentata) are widely considered safe for consumption. However, other varieties, such as Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas), may have a more intense flavor and can sometimes taste bitter or medicinal. It’s best to use culinary-grade lavender specifically labeled for culinary use to ensure the best results in your baking endeavors.
To summarize, lavender can be used in baking by infusing it into sugar or by directly adding dried or fresh flowers to your recipes. It pairs well with flavors like lemon and honey, adding a delightful floral note to your baked goods. However, it’s important to use lavender sparingly and choose culinary-grade varieties for the best results. So go ahead, experiment with lavender in your baking and enjoy the unique and aromatic delights it brings to your creations.
