Whether you enjoy the scent of lavender essential oil or are just looking for new ways to spice up your baking, lavender recipes are a great place to start. Lavender has a delicate, herby flavor that makes it an ideal addition to all kinds of sweet treats. If you’re still not convinced, know that lavender is actually a close relative of several common herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, that you probably already use. While too much can definitely lead to a soapy taste, used sparingly, lavender can create fresh, elegant desserts that are sure to stand out at the end of any meal. Here are a few of our favorite lavender-infused recipes:
Lavender Cookies
Is there anything better than buttery cookies fresh out of the oven? If there is, we’d argue it’s these lavender cookies by Olives & Thyme. Dried lavender buds and fresh lemon zest add a fresh and fruity kick to a simple shortbread recipe. Dip them in the optional lavender lemon glaze for a bit of extra flavor and sweetness.
Lavender Earl Grey Ice Cream
Earl Grey is a black tea flavored with bergamot, a type of oil extracted from the rinds of Seville oranges. Together, they create a rich, fruity flavor that compliments the sweet and floral quality of lavender quite nicely. This ice cream recipe by Food Duchess uses dried lavender buds and Earl Grey tea in a creamy vanilla base and is easy to whip up without an ice cream maker.
Blackberry Lavender Cake
Baker extraordinaire Sally McKenney of Sally’s Baking Addiction is a master when it comes to creating unique, decadent desserts, and this cake recipe is no exception. Layers of lavender-infused cake are filled with blackberry jam and buttercream frosting, while homemade lavender syrup on top adds a slightly floral touch.