Here at Robert Kline Art, we believe in engaging all the senses, even in the kitchen. Imagine the gentle floral aroma of lavender infusing your favorite treats and beverages. Today, we’re embarking on a journey to create a simple yet elegant culinary masterpiece: lavender-infused sugar.
Gathering Your Supplies: A Symphony of Scents and Sweetness
Before we begin, let’s gather our tools. For this aromatic adventure, you’ll need:
- Organic Culinary Lavender: I recommend English Lavender, but any culinary variety will do. You can use fresh or dried lavender.
- Sugar: Opt for organic evaporated cane juice or white granulated sugar.
- Glass Jar: An airtight jar, such as a mason jar or vintage tea caddy, is perfect for storing your infused sugar.
- Patience: Like all good things, infusing sugar with lavender takes a little time.
Step by Step: Infusing Your Sugar with Lavender’s Charm
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Preparing the Lavender:
- If using fresh lavender, cut a few stems, gently rinse them, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- For those eager beavers (like me!), place the lavender stems in a sunny window to speed up the drying process.
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Layering the Magic:
- Sprinkle a layer of sugar at the bottom of your chosen jar.
- Place a few prepared lavender stems on top of the sugar.
- Continue layering sugar and lavender until the jar is almost full.
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The Infusion Begins:
- As a rule of thumb, use one tablespoon of fresh lavender (or about 3 stems) per cup of sugar. Remember, it’s better to start with less lavender and gradually increase the amount if needed. We’re aiming for a delicate floral hint, not an overpowering perfume!
Pro Tip from Robert Kline Art: I prefer using whole lavender stems (fresh or dried) to prevent the buds from mixing too much with the sugar. Once the sugar is infused, simply remove the stems.
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Time and Patience:
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place like your pantry or cupboard.
- Allow the sugar to infuse for at least a few days, allowing the lavender’s fragrance and flavor to meld with the sweetness. The flavor intensifies over time, reaching its peak in about a week.
Note: If using dried lavender, ensure it’s still fragrant. A couple of teaspoons of dried lavender per jar is sufficient.
Unveiling Your Culinary Masterpiece: Lavender Infused Sugar
Lavender Infused Sugar in Glass Jar
Lavender infused sugar, beautifully presented in a glass jar.
After patiently waiting, your lavender-infused sugar is ready to elevate your culinary creations!
Culinary Adventures with Lavender Infused Sugar
The possibilities are endless with your freshly infused lavender sugar. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Enchanting Beverages: Add a touch of floral elegance to your iced tea, lemonade, or even a sophisticated cocktail.
- Delectable Treats: Sprinkle lavender sugar over cookies, shortbread, muffins, or scones for a touch of sweetness and a captivating aroma.
- Breakfast Bliss: Elevate your morning oatmeal or yogurt with a sprinkle of lavender sugar.
- Fruity Delight: Enhance the natural sweetness of fresh berries with a sprinkle of this fragrant sugar.
Lavender Infused Sugar with Vintage Tea Cup, Saucer and Spoon
Lavender infused sugar, ready to sweeten your favorite beverage.
Conclusion: A Taste of Lavender Bliss
Creating lavender-infused sugar is a testament to the simple joys of handcrafted goodness. It’s a sensory experience that transforms ordinary sugar into an extraordinary ingredient.
We invite you to embark on this aromatic adventure and share your culinary creations with us. Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience!
Stay tuned for our upcoming recipe featuring this delightful lavender-infused sugar!
For more handcrafted inspiration and unique gift ideas, explore the world of Robert Kline Art.