On a balmy afternoon, while strolling through a local farmer’s market, the sweet scent of lavender wafted through the air, capturing my senses. The vibrant purple blooms caught my eye, and I was instantly inspired to create something unique and delightful. That day, I decided to merge the comforting richness of traditional fudge with the delicate floral notes of lavender and the natural sweetness of honey. The result? A fudge that is not only indulgent but also a feast for the senses. Perfect for gifts or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, this Lavender-Honey Fudge is sure to impress.
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips
Optional: Edible flowers for garnish
Instructions
Begin by preparing an 8×8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, honey, and dried lavender. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, and the butter has melted.
Once combined, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, cooking until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage). This process will take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
As soon as it reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes before adding the white chocolate chips. Stir until the chips have completely melted and the fudge is smooth and glossy.
Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. If desired, sprinkle some additional dried lavender on top for a beautiful presentation. Let it cool at room temperature for about two hours until set.
Once the fudge is set, use the parchment overhang to lift it out of the baking dish. Cut into small squares or rectangles. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish each piece with edible flowers.
Serve this delightful Lavender-Honey Fudge at your next gathering or enjoy it as a sweet treat during a peaceful moment of your day. Each bite is a wonderful blend of creamy sweetness and floral notes, taking you back to that sunny day at the market.