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There’s something enchanting about the subtle floral notes of lavender that can transform a simple dessert into a captivating masterpiece. Recently, while perusing my spice cabinet, I rediscovered a jar of culinary lavender that had been gathering dust. As I inhaled its fragrant aroma, inspiration struck! I knew I had to create a frosting that could elevate my favorite vanilla cake, making it an unforgettable treat for my next gathering.

This Lavender Buttercream Frosting not only brings an unexpected flavor twist but also impresses with its stunning pastel hues, making your baked goods the star of the show. Simple to make and delightful to taste, it’s perfect for anyone tired of mundane, mass-produced frosting. Imagine the joyful smiles at your next celebration as friends and family indulge in a slice of cake crowned with this dreamy, aromatic frosting. Get ready to enchant your palate and dazzle your guests! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that adds a touch of whimsy to any occasion.

Why is Lavender Buttercream Frosting so special?

Unique Flavor Profile: The unexpected floral notes of lavender elevate your typical frosting into a sophisticated treat.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking to impress.

Visually Stunning: The beautiful pastel colors make your desserts pop, ensuring they steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Versatile Use: Not just for cakes, this lavender frosting pairs beautifully with cupcakes, cookies, and more, making it a go-to for various occasions.

Crowd Pleaser: Friends and family will be wowed by this delightful twist on a classic favorite. It’s the perfect way to elevate your baking game!

Lavender Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

• Get ready to create something magical!

For the Buttercream

Unsalted butter – 1 cup (227 g) at room temperature ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Ground dried lavender – 1-2 teaspoons add a unique floral hint that makes this Lavender Buttercream Frosting stand out.
Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon enhances the overall sweetness and flavor depth.
Powdered sugar – 3-4 cups (342-456 g) provides the sweetness and structure for your frosting.
Milk – 2-3 Tablespoons at room temperature helps achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.

For the Coloring

Pink gel food coloring – A small amount adds a sweet blush to your frosting.
Violet gel food coloring – A touch creates a beautiful lavender hue that matches the flavor!

Embrace the joy of homemade frosting with these delightful ingredients and make your desserts truly unforgettable!

How to Make Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Prepare lavender: Start by crushing the dried culinary lavender buds in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin. This releases their aromatic oil and enhances the flavor in your frosting.
Cream the butter: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 1 minute. Add 1 teaspoon of ground lavender and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Incorporate sugar and milk: Gradually add 3 ½ cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds to combine, then increase to medium-high speed for 2 minutes until fluffy.
Adjust texture and flavor: If you find the consistency too thin, add up to ½ cup more powdered sugar gradually. If too thick, add milk, ½ tablespoon at a time. Taste the frosting and adjust the lavender or salt to balance sweetness.
Color your frosting: Once your frosting is perfect, add a tiny amount of pink and violet gel food coloring using a toothpick. Mix until you achieve a pastel color that’s visually pleasing.
Store or serve: If not using the frosting immediately, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Optional: Garnish with edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Choose Quality Lavender: Use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure safety and flavor. Avoid using decorative lavender, which may not be food-safe.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are at room temperature before starting. It helps create a smooth, creamy Lavender Buttercream Frosting without lumps.
Adjust Consistency Carefully: If your frosting is too thin, add powdered sugar gradually; if too thick, add milk small amounts at a time. This balance is crucial for a perfect texture.
Taste Test: Always taste your frosting before using. If the lavender flavor is too mild, add a little more ground lavender, ensuring it doesn’t overpower the sweetness.
Color Gradually: When adding gel food coloring, start with a tiny amount and mix thoroughly before adding more. This prevents oversaturation of color and ensures a lovely pastel shade.

Lavender Buttercream Frosting Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this frosting to match your tastes and needs! Here are some delightful twists to consider.

Vegan: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Honey Sweetened: Substitute powdered sugar with an equal amount of honey for a more natural sweetness and a unique flavor profile.
Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the frosting for a refreshing citrus flavor that perfectly complements the lavender.
Chocolate Lovers: Blend in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate twist that pairs wonderfully with lavender.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with mixed herbs by adding finely chopped basil or mint to the frosting for a garden-fresh flair.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper for an unexpected spicy contrast that beautifully offsets the sweetness.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for added crunch and a delightful texture.
Flavored Extracts: Switch the vanilla extract for almond or lemon extract to create entirely new flavor dimensions for your frosting.

Let your imagination run wild—each variation adds a personal touch that transforms this already enchanting frosting into something uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Lavender Buttercream Frosting delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the frosting up to 1 week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its silky texture, be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before using, then re-whip it lightly for that perfect spreadable consistency. Additionally, you can grind the lavender ahead of time and keep it in a sealed jar, ready for when you need a quick frosting fix. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix in the food coloring to achieve that charming pastel hue, and your beautiful, aromatic frosting is good to go!

How to Store and Freeze Lavender Buttercream Frosting

Room Temperature: Keep the frosting at room temperature for up to 2 hours if it’s already on a dessert. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat to maintain its texture.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature to soften and re-whip for a smooth consistency.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the lavender buttercream frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before re-whipping.

Reheating: When you’re ready to use, gently stir or re-whip the frosting if it has separated. This will restore its original creamy texture, ensuring your Lavender Buttercream Frosting is as delightful as ever!

What to Serve with Lavender Buttercream Frosting?

Imagine a lovely dessert table adorned with sweet delights that harmonize perfectly with the enchanting flavors of floral frosting.

Vanilla Cupcakes: The classic pairing allows the lavender to shine, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures with each bite.
Lemon Bars: The tangy zest of lemon complements the sweetness of lavender, offering a balanced and refreshing treat that’ll excite your palate.
Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and crumbly, these cookies serve as a delicate base for the rich lavender frosting, making for a charming combination.
Fresh Berries: The natural tartness of strawberries or raspberries provides a vibrant burst, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the floral notes of the frosting.
Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant tea mirrors the floral essence of lavender, creating a sophisticated pairing to enjoy alongside your frosted desserts.
Carrot Cake: The warmth of spices in carrot cake harmonizes beautifully with lavender, adding a layer of complexity to this classic favorite.

Savor each moment as you explore these thoughtful pairings, turning any simple gathering into an extraordinary celebration of flavor!

Lavender Buttercream Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right lavender for this frosting?
Absolutely! It’s crucial to use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure both safety and the best flavor. Avoid decorative or non-food-grade lavender, as it may contain harmful substances. You can usually find culinary lavender at specialty spice shops or online, ensuring your frosting has that delightful floral note.

How should I store leftover Lavender Buttercream Frosting?
To keep your frosting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes to soften, then give it a gentle re-whip to restore that lovely creamy texture!

Can I freeze Lavender Buttercream Frosting?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, transfer the frosting into an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then re-whip gently to bring back that delightful consistency!

What if my frosting is too thin/thick?
Very good question! If your Lavender Buttercream Frosting feels too thin after mixing, gradually add up to ½ cup more powdered sugar, mixing it in ¼ cup at a time until you reach the desired thickness. Conversely, if the frosting is too thick, add milk one ½ tablespoon at a time until you achieve the right spreadable consistency.

Is this frosting safe for pets or those with allergies?
Lavender is generally safe for humans but should be kept away from pets, especially cats and dogs, as it can irritate their digestive systems. Additionally, always check for allergies to lavender or any other ingredient in the recipe. Using organic, high-quality ingredients can help minimize risks for those with allergies.

Can I adjust the flavor intensity of the lavender?
Absolutely! If you find the lavender flavor isn’t strong enough for your liking, simply add 1 additional teaspoon of ground lavender during the mixing process. Just be sure to taste as you go, so it doesn’t overpower the sweetness of the frosting!