Lavender Infused Sugar

I absolutely love finding new ways to dress up my favorite recipes. Sometimes changing one spice or herb can make a huge difference. I’ve been experimenting with vanilla beans lately, but I’ve been dreaming of hot July weather and summer flavors so this lavender infused sugar was a must do.

Lavender infused sugar is fairly easy to make. I use my small food processor, but you can use a larger sized one. If you use a larger sized one you will need to add more sugar. The lavender buds are light and small; adding the sugar will help the buds touch the blade. Be careful not to over blend the sugar as you will end up with powdered sugar. If you don’t have a food processor you can use a mortar and pestle to grind the buds and release the oils. The longer you allow the sugar to sit and infuse the stronger the flavor you will get.

What can you use lavender sugar for? Use it in your favorite sugar cookie or shortbread recipe. Sprinkle on top of scones, lemon bars or even your blueberry pie filling before you top it with your crust. Stir into lemonade, tea or your favorite adult beverage (I.e. gin and tonic). I personally enjoy it stirred into earl grey tea with a fresh lemon wedge.

Ingredients & Tools:

• 1/4 cup Lavender buds (food grade)
• 2 cups of sugar
• Food processor

Method:

1. In a food processor mix together lavender and 1/2 cup of sugar until the buds are well separated.
2. In a separate bowl mix together lavender sugar and the rest of the sugar until well dispersed.
3. Store in an airtight container.