As the sun began to set over the lavender fields of Provence, I found myself enchanted by the delicate aroma wafting through the air. It was there, among the vibrant purple blossoms, that I had my first taste of lavender infused sweets. Inspired by that magical moment, I decided to create my very own version of bonbons, combining the floral essence of lavender with rich, creamy honey. The result? An exquisite treat that transports you to a sun-kissed afternoon in the French countryside.
Ingredients
1 cup dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Edible flowers (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the lavender-infused cream. In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over low heat, allowing it to warm without boiling. Once warm, stir in the culinary lavender buds and honey, then remove from heat. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Next, strain the cream through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds, pressing gently to extract all the aromatic liquid. In a separate bowl, finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. Pour the warm lavender-infused cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
Once the chocolate has melted, add the vanilla extract and stir until smooth and glossy, creating a luxurious ganache. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until it is firm enough to scoop.
With your ganache ready, use a melon baller or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms, creating a smooth surface. Place the rolled bonbons on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Now it’s time to coat these little delights! Melt the remaining dark chocolate in a microwave or using a double boiler until smooth. Dip each bonbon into the melted chocolate, using a fork to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
For a finishing touch, dust the bonbons with powdered sugar while the chocolate is still wet. If desired, you can also garnish them with edible flowers for an added touch of elegance.
Finally, chill the bonbons in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the chocolate coating. Once firm, these delightful lavender honey bonbons are ready to be enjoyed. Share them with friends or savor them alone; either way, they are sure to bring a taste of the French countryside right to your home.
Indulge in these exquisite treats and let their floral notes and rich chocolate transport you to a tranquil lavender field, where every bite is a reminder of that perfect summer evening.