Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lavender Honey Cupcakes offer a delightful twist on traditional desserts by infusing the delicate floral notes of lavender with the natural sweetness of honey. Their light, airy texture and subtle flavors make them perfect for spring gatherings, tea parties, or as a unique treat to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 large eggs
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½ cup milk
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¼ cup honey
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender (plus extra for garnish)
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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4 cups powdered sugar
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¼ cup honey
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
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Pinch of salt
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Dried lavender for garnish
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, dried lavender, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
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Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
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Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
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Cool: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Add milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
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Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the prepared honey frosting. Garnish with dried lavender for an elegant touch.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12 cupcakes
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Preparation Time: 30 minutes
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Baking Time: 18-20 minutes
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Cooling Time: Approximately 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, plus additional cooling time.
Variations
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
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Vegan: Use plant-based butter and substitute eggs with flax eggs. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
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Lavender Infused Milk: For a more pronounced lavender flavor, steep dried lavender buds in warm milk for 15 minutes, strain, and use in place of regular milk in the recipe.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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Refrigeration: If storing in the refrigerator, allow cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
FAQs
How do I prevent the lavender from overpowering the cupcakes?
Use culinary-grade dried lavender and measure carefully. A little goes a long way; start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Can I use lavender extract instead of dried lavender?
Yes, but use sparingly. Lavender extract is more concentrated, so start with a few drops and adjust as needed.
How can I make the frosting more stable in warm weather?
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the powdered sugar before mixing into the butter to help stabilize the frosting.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
What can I use as a substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I infuse milk with lavender?
Steep dried lavender buds in warm milk for about 15 minutes, then strain before using in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture, or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
How do I make the cupcakes fluffier?
Ensure butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy, and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain airiness.
Can I add food coloring to the frosting?
Yes, a few drops of food coloring can be added to achieve a desired hue.
How do I garnish the cupcakes?
Top each cupcake with a sprig of dried lavender for an elegant and aromatic garnish.
Conclusion
Lavender Honey Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of floral and sweet flavors, perfect for spring occasions or as a special treat. Their light texture and aromatic appeal make them a favorite among those seeking a unique dessert experience. Whether for a tea party, brunch, or a thoughtful gift, these cupcakes are sure to impress and satisfy.
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