If you’re searching for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug wrapped in floral elegance, the Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These cupcakes balance the delicate, fragrant notes of lavender with the rich, natural sweetness of honey, delivering a moist crumb and a luscious frosting that’s downright irresistible. Every bite feels like a mini escape to a sunny garden, all wrapped up in beautifully frosted little cakes that are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to celebrations with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making these cupcakes truly shine. Each component plays an essential role, bringing together the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and that dreamy lavender hue.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The essential base that gives structure to your cupcakes.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your cupcakes rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a gentle lift and tenderness to the crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the sweet flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, moist texture and delicious buttery taste.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overshadowing the honey.
- 1/2 cup honey: Brings natural floral sweetness and depth.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and boosts the honey’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist for airy cupcakes.
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender: Infuses that iconic floral essence into every bite.
- For the Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: The creamy base that makes the frosting luscious.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting just right.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Deepens the flavor and complements the cupcakes perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Helps achieve the ideal frosting consistency.
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender: Adds a subtle floral note and delicate decoration.
How to Make Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a cupcake pan with paper liners — this makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your cupcakes come out perfect every time. Next, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — in a medium bowl. This ensures an even rise and balances the flavors in every bite. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and honey together until light and fluffy; this mixture is the secret to a moist, tender cupcake. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, stable batter, and stir in the vanilla extract for that extra layer of flavor. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with milk to keep the batter light and airy, and finally, fold in the dried culinary lavender to infuse your cupcakes with that signature floral charm.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among your lined cupcake pan, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without spilling over. Bake for 18-20 minutes; the smell of honey and lavender will start to fill your kitchen, making the wait almost unbearable! Use a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake to check for doneness — it should come out clean when they’re perfectly baked. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a short 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which is vital before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting
For the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy and light in texture. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar on low speed to prevent a powdery cloud in your kitchen, then add honey and milk to create a smooth, fluffy frosting that’s bursting with flavor. Gently fold in the dried lavender — it adds a subtle floral touch that makes this frosting truly special and delightfully fragrant.
Step 4: Frost and Serve
Once your cupcakes are completely cool — patience is key! — use a piping bag or knife to generously frost each one with the lavender honey buttercream. For a little extra magic, sprinkle a few dried lavender buds on top as a garnish. Your stunning, fragrant Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed and shared!
How to Serve Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A delicate sprinkle of dried culinary lavender buds or a small drizzle of honey on top of the frosting elevates the presentation and enhances the floral sweetness, making each cupcake feel like a tiny work of edible art.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair beautifully with light, refreshing accompaniments like a fresh fruit salad, chamomile tea, or even a sparkling lemonade, providing a perfect balance to their sweet and floral notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your cupcakes on a rustic wooden board adorned with sprigs of fresh lavender or alongside petite edible flowers for a charming, garden-party vibe. Alternatively, display them in a tiered cupcake stand to make an eye-catching centerpiece at your next get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their softness and fresh flavor. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the refrigerator is fine but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing overnight in the fridge for that just-baked freshness anytime you want.
Reheating
To revive the moist texture and floral aroma of stored cupcakes, gently warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Fresh lavender has a stronger, more robust flavor and higher moisture content, which can affect the texture. Dried culinary lavender is preferred for this recipe because it provides a subtle, balanced floweriness without overpowering the cupcakes.
Is it necessary to use honey in both the cupcakes and frosting?
Honey is integral to this recipe because it complements the floral lavender perfectly and adds natural sweetness and moisture. Omitting it would change both the flavor and texture, so it’s best to include it in both elements.
Can I substitute regular sugar for honey?
You can use extra granulated sugar instead of honey, but the cupcakes won’t have the same depth of flavor or moistness. Honey’s unique flavor is a highlight in the Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe.
How long do these cupcakes keep well?
When properly stored in an airtight container, these cupcakes stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is recommended to maintain quality.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain beautiful.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend making the Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe enough. It’s one of those amazing recipes that brings so much joy to the kitchen and the table, with flavors that are nuanced yet comforting. The delicate lavender, mellow honey, and creamy frosting come together in perfect harmony, making every bite feel like a little celebration. Trust me, once you bake and taste these cupcakes, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple for your special occasions and everyday moments alike.
Print
Lavender Honey Cupcakes with Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fragrant Lavender Honey Cupcakes featuring a moist, tender crumb infused with culinary lavender and sweetened naturally with honey. Topped with a smooth lavender honey buttercream frosting, these cupcakes offer a perfect balance of floral aroma and sweetness, ideal for special occasions or a charming afternoon treat.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
For the Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and honey until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Finally, gently fold in the dried lavender evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Lavender Honey Buttercream Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar mixing on low speed until combined. Add the honey and milk, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more milk or powdered sugar. Gently fold in the dried lavender for flavor.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost each cupcake using a piping bag or knife with the lavender honey buttercream. Optionally, sprinkle a few dried lavender buds on top for decoration. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the delightful floral and sweet flavors.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure the flavor is safe and pleasant.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a tender crumb.
- Adjust the frosting consistency by adding milk or powdered sugar one teaspoon at a time.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Let refrigerated cupcakes come to room temperature before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
