There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and floral flavors that dance together in this unique fudge recipe. It all started one sunny afternoon while I was wandering through a local farmer’s market. The vibrant stalls were bursting with colorful produce and artisanal goods. As I passed a vendor selling jars of honey infused with lavender, I was struck by an idea. Why not blend this fragrant honey with creamy fudge? The result is a delightful treat that not only tastes divine but also looks stunning with its soft purple hue. This fudge is perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup lavender-infused honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Edible lavender flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients well to ensure there are no lumps. Next, add the heavy cream, unsalted butter, and lavender-infused honey to the pan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
Once the mixture reaches a gentle simmer, stop stirring and allow it to boil for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. You want the fudge base to reach a soft-ball stage, which is around 240°F on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that you can squish between your fingers, it’s ready.
After reaching the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped walnuts if you choose to include them. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to cool slightly. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Now, it’s time to pour the fudge into a prepared baking dish lined with parchment paper. Spread it evenly with a spatula and smooth the top. For a decorative touch, sprinkle some edible lavender flowers over the surface of the fudge.
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.
Serve these delightful pieces at your next gathering or gift them in a beautiful box. Each bite offers a luscious sweetness combined with the delicate essence of lavender, creating a truly indulgent experience.
Enjoy your homemade Lavender Honey Fudge, and remember to share the story of how it came to be!