Lemon Lavender Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients

Muffins:

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup Almond Breeze Original or Vanilla Almondmilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Glaze:

• 1 tablespoon Almond Breeze Original or Vanilla Almondmilk
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line the cups with paper liners.

Step 2: In a food processor, pulse together the sugar, lavender buds, and lemon zest until smooth. The goal is to break down the lavender. Set aside 1/4 cup of the lavender sugar for later.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the remaining 1/2 cup lavender sugar, softened butter, and eggs until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the honey, Almond Breeze Almondmilk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 8: While the muffins bake, prepare the glaze by whisking together the almond milk and powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Once the muffins have cooled slightly, drizzle a spoonful of the glaze over the top of each muffin and sprinkle with the reserved lavender sugar.

Cook's Notes

If you want to make these muffins dairy-free, feel free to substitute the butter with your preferred butter substitute. If you find the lavender flavor too strong, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon or strain the sugar mixture to remove the larger lavender buds.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	286	-
Total Fat	9g	11%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	36mg	12%
Sodium	225mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	53g	19%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Total Sugars	36g	-
Protein	3g	6%
Vitamin C	36mg	40%
Calcium	50mg	4%
Iron	1mg	8%
Potassium	145mg	3%

Origin and History: Lemon Lavender Muffins represent a blend of refreshing citrus and delicate floral flavors, with their origin rooted in American baking culture. The combination of lemon and lavender may seem modern, but lavender has been used in cooking for centuries, particularly in European culinary traditions. The addition of lavender to baked goods became popular in the early 2000s as chefs and home bakers began experimenting with more unique, aromatic ingredients. This trend has only grown, making recipes like Lemon Lavender Muffins a sought-after treat in cafs and bakeries across the globe.

Regional Variations: While the Lemon Lavender Muffin is primarily associated with American cuisine, the use of lavender in baking is quite popular in European regions, particularly in France and England. In Provence, lavender is often used in sweets such as cakes and cookies, offering a subtle and aromatic flavor. In contrast, the American take on this muffin recipe emphasizes the bright, citrusy zing of lemon to balance the earthy and floral notes of lavender. Different regions may play with the amounts of lavender, adjusting the intensity according to local preferences.

Distinction from Similar Dishes: Lemon Lavender Muffins differ from typical lemon muffins or lemon poppy seed muffins by the inclusion of lavender, a herb known for its strong, aromatic profile. While lemon muffins are often sweet and tangy, the addition of lavender transforms these muffins into a more complex and fragrant pastry. The floral notes of lavender pair beautifully with the citrus, creating a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from more common fruit-infused muffins, like blueberry or cranberry muffins. Lavender muffins also often have a slightly earthy undertone that regular fruit muffins lack.

Where to Serve: These muffins are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual brunches to elegant afternoon teas. They are particularly well-suited for springtime events, where their light and refreshing flavors evoke the feeling of a blossoming garden. They can be found in high-end bakeries or cafes that specialize in artisanal or seasonal baked goods. Furthermore, the muffin's delicate and sophisticated flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for catering events, bridal showers, or any gathering looking to offer something a little more refined. Some people even serve them at garden parties or picnics, where the scent of lavender complements the outdoor atmosphere.

Interesting Facts: Lavender, the star ingredient in this recipe, is not only used in cooking but also in a variety of health and wellness products. Lavender oil, extracted from the flowers, is known for its calming and soothing properties. Its often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The combination of lavender and lemon is also popular in other culinary creations, such as cocktails and sorbets, thanks to the ability of the lavender to enhance the natural sweetness of the lemon. Additionally, using fresh lavender in baking is quite a delicate affair, as the flowers can be overpowering if not used in moderation. The dried lavender buds in this recipe ensure the flavor is balanced without overwhelming the palate.

FAQ about Lemon Lavender Muffins Recipe

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