Lavender flavored muffins

Lavender Muffins - An Elegant Treat for Your Soul

Dear friends, today I invite you to enter a world of refined and delicate aromas, where lavender reveals its charm in a muffin recipe that will bathe your senses. Lavender, this wonderful flower, is not just an aromatic plant, but also a symbol of relaxation and tranquility. I love using it in all possible forms - from comforting teas to fragrant soaps. I promise you that these lavender muffins are a delight that will bring a touch of happiness to each day.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

For the muffins:
- 200 ml milk
- 1 teaspoon dried lavender flowers
- 400 g (2 cups) flour
- 150 g (3/4 cup) sugar
- 80 g butter
- 2 eggs
- vanilla extract

For the frosting:
- 25 ml milk
- 350 g powdered sugar
- 100 g butter, at room temperature
- vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Infusing the milk with lavender
We start by bringing the aroma of lavender to the forefront. In a small saucepan, heat the milk together with the dried lavender flowers, being careful not to bring it to a boil. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavor to infuse well. Then, strain the milk to remove the flowers. This is our secret method for adding a deep lavender taste to our muffins.

Step 2: Preparing the muffin batter
In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Mix them together until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This is the moment when the sugar will dissolve completely into the butter, giving the muffins a velvety texture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The vanilla extract will add a note of warmth and sweetness.

Step 3: Adding the infused milk
Now, take the lavender-infused milk and gradually pour it into the butter and egg mixture, continuing to mix. This step will ensure moisture and flavor in every bite.

Step 4: The dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This is an essential step to avoid lumps and achieve a light texture. Add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients, gently mixing until everything is combined. Do not overmix, as we want the muffins to be fluffy and airy.

Step 5: Baking the muffins
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a muffin tray with cupcake liners, filling each liner about 3/4 full with the batter. Now, it's time to bake them for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It smells fantastic, doesn’t it?

Step 6: Preparing the frosting
While the muffins are baking, we can prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, mix the butter, at room temperature, with the powdered sugar. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a spreadable consistency. I recommend using an electric mixer to get a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 7: Decorating the muffins
Once the muffins have completely cooled, it's time to decorate them. Use a large piping bag to create rosettes of frosting on each muffin. As a final touch, sprinkle some lavender-flavored sugar crystals for an elegant look and an extra burst of flavor.

Serving:
These lavender muffins are perfect to be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, in the company of loved ones. Imagine how the aroma of lavender blends with a warm drink, creating moments of relaxation and joy. I recommend enjoying them on a sunny afternoon, when the sun is rising in the sky and nothing can spoil your day.

Nutritional benefits:
These muffins are not only delicious but also healthier than many other desserts. Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing properties, while eggs and butter provide essential proteins and healthy fats. The flour can be replaced with whole grain or gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, try adding white chocolate chips or ground almonds to the muffin batter. Another idea would be to replace lavender with other aromatic herbs, such as rosemary or basil, for a surprising combination.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh lavender?
Yes, but make sure to wash it well and chop it finely to avoid a fibrous texture in the muffins.

2. How can I keep the muffins fresh for longer?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent drying out. They can also be frozen to be enjoyed later.

3. Can this recipe be adapted for vegans?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with banana puree or applesauce and the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Share your results with me and feel free to add your own variations. Best wishes and happy cooking!