Lavender Buttercream Frosting Recipe
If you have a soft spot for elegant desserts with a gentle floral twist, this Lavender Buttercream Frosting is going to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen. Creamy, airy, and boasting a subtle lavender flavor, this frosting elevates simple cakes and cupcakes into unforgettable treats that feel both vintage and effortlessly chic. Its delicate pastel color and enchanting scent make it perfect for everything from a cozy tea party to a stunning Mother’s Day dessert. Ready to whip up something truly special? Let’s dive into how you can create this dreamy Lavender Buttercream Frosting with ease and confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this Lavender Buttercream Frosting is wonderfully straightforward, and the ingredients play a starring role in the final taste and texture. Each component works harmoniously to provide the richness, fluffiness, and subtle floral notes that make this frosting so irresistible.
- Unsalted butter: Using room temperature butter ensures a smooth and creamy base without any lumps.
- Powdered sugar: Sifted for a silky texture, this sweetens the frosting perfectly while keeping it light.
- Heavy cream or milk: Adds the perfect amount of moisture for spreadability and fluffiness.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth and balances the floral notes beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch to cut through the sweetness and brighten the flavors.
- Culinary lavender buds or lavender extract: The heart of the frosting, providing that lovely, subtle floral aroma and taste.
- Purple food coloring (optional): For that elegant lavender hue that makes the frosting visually enchanting.
How to Make Lavender Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Infuse the Lavender Flavor
To really bring out the floral essence, start by gently heating the heavy cream and steeping the culinary lavender buds in it. This infusion step captures the delicate perfume of lavender without any harshness. After 10 to 15 minutes, be sure to strain out the buds carefully and chill the infused cream. This step infuses the cream with subtle floral notes that become the soul of your frosting.
Step 2: Cream the Butter
Next, beat your room temperature unsalted butter on medium-high speed until it turns pale and luxuriously creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This sets a silky, smooth base for your frosting, so taking the time here pays off with that dreamy, spreadable texture we love.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually
Now, gently add the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed. Doing this slowly helps keep your kitchen free of sugar clouds and ensures the sweetness is incorporated evenly, giving your frosting a perfect body without any graininess.
Step 4: Mix in Flavorings and Cream
Pour in the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and two tablespoons of the lavender-infused cream you prepared earlier. If you’re using lavender extract instead, substitute accordingly. Depending on your desired consistency, add a little more cream until the frosting is fluffy yet firm enough to hold shape.
Step 5: Add Color and Whip to Fluffiness
If you want that dreamy lavender shade, now’s the moment to add a drop or two of purple food coloring. Then, crank your mixer back up to medium-high and beat the frosting for another 2 to 3 minutes. This whipping step is what creates that cloud-like texture, perfect for piping delicate rosettes or smooth spreads.
Step 6: Apply with Love
Your Lavender Buttercream Frosting is now ready to adorn your favorite cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. Use it straight away or hold it in the fridge until you’re ready to make any dessert truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Lavender Buttercream Frosting
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to celebrate the floral charm of this frosting. Consider edible lavender buds, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or tiny silver dragees for a touch of sparkle. Fresh berries, especially blueberries or blackberries, also pair beautifully and add a pop of natural color that complements the lavender notes.
Side Dishes
This frosting is a star in sweet company but also pairs wonderfully alongside light treats like shortbread cookies, buttery scones, or delicate almond cake slices. Think of it as the floral finale to a classic afternoon tea spread where every bite feels like a little moment of bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests or make your desserts Instagram-ready? Pipe your Lavender Buttercream Frosting into elegant swirls or rosette patterns atop cupcakes, or create a smooth finish on cakes and gently place sprigs of lavender or violets on top. For a rustic vibe, use a palette knife to create soft waves and peaks. The gentle lavender hue makes every presentation picture-perfect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Lavender Buttercream Frosting, no worries! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using again, let it come to room temperature and give it a light whip with a mixer to restore that fluffy texture.
Freezing
This frosting freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then beat it briefly to bring back all the smooth, airy goodness.
Reheating
When thawed, you don’t actually reheat Lavender Buttercream Frosting, but rather soften it by letting it sit at room temperature and re-whipping. This restores the perfect consistency without risking melting the delicate butter base.
FAQs
Can I use dried lavender buds for this frosting?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use culinary-grade dried lavender specifically meant for cooking to avoid any bitterness or unwanted flavors.
What if I don’t have culinary lavender buds? Can I use lavender extract only?
Yes, you can use about half a teaspoon of lavender extract as a shortcut. The flavor will be more concentrated, so start small and adjust to taste.
How do I get the frosting to the perfect piping consistency?
Beat the buttercream long enough to make it light and airy, and adjust the cream or milk gradually to achieve a smooth but firm consistency that holds its shape.
Is this frosting suitable for vegans?
You can make a vegan version by swapping butter for a plant-based alternative and using almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream. The technique remains the same and the taste will still be delightful.
Can I add other flavors to the Lavender Buttercream Frosting?
Definitely! Lavender pairs beautifully with lemon, honey, or vanilla. Just add a little zest or flavoring along with the lavender to customize your frosting experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about Lavender Buttercream Frosting — it transforms any simple dessert into a charming, fragrant masterpiece that speaks of care and elegance. Whether you’re making cupcakes for a loved one or crafting a centerpiece cake for a special occasion, this frosting is bound to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and watch how a little floral magic can brighten your baking world.
