Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

There’s something undeniably enchanting about lavender in baked goods—it adds a fragrant, floral touch that feels both sophisticated and comforting. These Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream are no exception. The soft, delicate lavender-infused cupcakes are topped with a silky, sweet honey buttercream that’s both smooth and dreamy. The combination of floral and honey flavors is an absolute showstopper, and whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cupcakes will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

These cupcakes aren’t just a treat; they’re a mood. Here’s why they’re the perfect bake for any occasion:

Versatile: Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes will elevate the moment.

Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are simple and easy to find, but they come together to create something truly special.

Quick and Easy: You can whip up a batch of these beauties in no time! The recipe is easy to follow, and the results are always impressive.

Customizable: Want a stronger lavender flavor? Add a little extra lavender. Prefer a more intense honey flavor in the buttercream? Go for it—this recipe is as flexible as your sweet tooth.

Crowd-Pleasing: Light, fluffy, and packed with flavor, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress. From kids to adults, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients in Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

Here’s what you’ll need to make these fragrant and delicious cupcakes:

For the Cupcakes:

All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cupcakes that gives them the perfect texture.

Baking Powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.

Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right without overpowering the delicate lavender flavor.

Butter: Provides richness and moisture, making the cupcakes soft and tender.

Eggs: Bind everything together and add a lovely richness to the batter.

Milk: Keeps the cupcakes moist and adds to their soft texture.

Dried Lavender: The star ingredient! It gives these cupcakes their signature floral flavor. Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender.

Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla complements the lavender beautifully.

For the Honey Buttercream:

Butter: The base of the buttercream, creating that rich, creamy texture.

Powdered Sugar: Helps to sweeten the buttercream and gives it a smooth consistency.

Honey: Adds a sweet, floral flavor to the buttercream that pairs perfectly with the lavender.

Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla adds a warm, comforting flavor to the buttercream.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how you’ll create these dreamy cupcakes:

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and makes sure your cupcakes rise perfectly.

Infuse the Milk with Lavender: In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat. Add the dried lavender and let it steep for about 5 minutes. The milk will take on the lovely lavender flavor. Strain out the lavender and set the milk aside to cool.

Prepare the Cupcake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the lavender-infused milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cupcakes.

Bake the Cupcakes: Spoon the batter into a lined muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Honey Buttercream: While the cupcakes cool, prepare the buttercream. Beat the butter until soft and creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Beat until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy. If it’s too thick, add a little milk to reach the desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to frost the cupcakes with the honey buttercream. You can pipe it on for a neat, professional look or spread it on with a knife for a more rustic vibe.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve these cupcakes with a cup of tea, coffee, or even on their own as a sweet treat. Enjoy the light, floral sweetness of the lavender paired with the rich honey buttercream.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 350

(Note: these values may vary depending on your ingredients.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

These cupcakes are perfect for pairing with a variety of drinks and dishes:

• Tea: A cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea pairs perfectly with the floral notes of the lavender.
• Coffee: For a slightly richer pairing, enjoy these cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee.
• Fruit: Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, make a lovely side to these sweet cupcakes.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• If you’re unable to find culinary lavender, you can order it online or at specialty food stores.
• To get the most flavor out of the lavender, make sure you steep it in warm milk rather than just adding it directly to the batter.
• If you prefer a lighter buttercream, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar to taste or add more honey for a sweeter, more floral flavor.
• Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender?
It’s best to use dried lavender, as fresh lavender may have too much moisture and can be overpowering in flavor. Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender.

2. Can I make these cupcakes without the honey buttercream?
Yes! You can enjoy the lavender cupcakes as they are, or you can add a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lavender milk.

3. How can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free version and use a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. For the buttercream, use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free powdered sugar substitute.

4. Can I make the honey buttercream ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the buttercream a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before frosting the cupcakes.

5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting.

6. How can I store these cupcakes?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

7. Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! If honey buttercream isn’t your thing, you can substitute with a cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or even a simple vanilla buttercream.

8. Can I add a different flavor to the cupcakes?
Yes! You can add citrus zest like lemon or orange to the batter for a fresh twist on the lavender flavor.

9. How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done. If it comes out with wet batter, they need a few more minutes.

10. Can I make mini cupcakes instead?
Yes! Simply adjust the baking time, checking for doneness after 12-15 minutes.

Conclusion

These Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream are the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The soft lavender cupcakes, paired with the sweet honey buttercream, create a treat that’s both light and flavorful. Whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging in something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Enjoy the delicate, floral flavors that will transport you to a garden full of blooms!

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