On a whimsical afternoon, I found myself wandering through a fragrant lavender field. The gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming lavender, and I felt inspired to create something uniquely delightful. This Lavender Vanilla Bean Pudding is a tribute to that serene moment, a silky-smooth dessert that dances on your palate like the soft petals of lavender in the wind. The comforting notes of vanilla bean intertwine effortlessly with the floral essence of lavender, making this pudding a dreamy treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)
3 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh lavender sprigs and edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Begin by combining the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat, ensuring the cornstarch dissolves completely, and keep stirring until it begins to steam but does not boil.
As the mixture warms, gently add the dried lavender and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean, along with the bean pod itself. Allow this fragrant concoction to steep for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors infuse beautifully.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and frothy. Once the lavender and vanilla have steeped, remove the saucepan from the heat, and carefully strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds and vanilla pod. Slowly drizzle the warm liquid into the egg yolks while whisking continuously to temper the yolks and prevent them from scrambling.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the pudding thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for an extra burst of flavor.
Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large bowl, covering the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool at room temperature for a short while before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.
When ready to serve, garnish the pudding with fresh lavender sprigs and edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Each spoonful is a delicate balance of floral sweetness and creamy richness, transporting you to that serene lavender field with every bite.
Indulge in this whimsical treat, and share it with friends or family. It’s a delightful way to celebrate life’s simple pleasures while savoring the beauty of nature through your culinary creations.