As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue across my kitchen, I found myself reminiscing about the enchanting summer evenings spent in my grandmother’s garden. The air was fragrant with blooming lavender, and we would often escape the heat by indulging in sweet treats. Inspired by those cherished memories, I decided to create these whimsical lavender honey doughnuts, combining the delicate floral notes of lavender with the rich sweetness of honey. These doughnuts are not only delicious but are also a feast for the eyes, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp culinary lavender buds (dried)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2-3 tbsp milk (for glaze)
Extra lavender buds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a doughnut pan with a bit of cooking spray. The anticipation of baking fills the air with excitement, and the aroma of lavender will soon transform your kitchen.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, allowing the dry ingredients to mingle harmoniously. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, honey, eggs, melted butter, culinary lavender, and vanilla extract. The soothing scent of lavender will lift your spirits as you blend these ingredients into a fragrant mixture.
Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, taking care not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, a sign that your doughnuts will be wonderfully fluffy. Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. You can also use a piping bag for a neater approach, as it adds a touch of finesse.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the doughnuts are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As they bake, the sweet aroma of lavender will envelop your home, a reminder of those joyful summer nights.
Once baked, remove the doughnuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary. Dip the tops of the cooled doughnuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
For a final touch, sprinkle a few extra lavender buds on top of the glaze for an elegant finish. The combination of flavors and the beautiful presentation will surely impress your family and friends.
Serve these whimsical lavender honey doughnuts at your next gathering or enjoy them during a quiet moment with a cup of tea. Each bite will transport you to that magical garden, where sweet memories are made and shared. Enjoy!