Lavender Honey Cupcakes

Name: Lavender Honey Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup honey; 2 tsp culinary lavender; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup honey; 1 tsp culinary lavender, finely ground; 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

I adore creating desserts that look as good as they taste, and these Lavender Honey Cupcakes are a perfect example of that philosophy. The gentle floral notes of lavender combined with the natural sweetness of honey create a delightful symphony of flavors. Baking these cupcakes is not just about the taste; it's also an experience filled with fragrant aromas that fill the kitchen. They are perfect for special occasions or just a cozy afternoon treat, and your friends will be in awe when they take their first bite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:02:28.196Z

When I first tried lavender in a dessert, I was amazed by how the delicate flavor harmonized with honey. I experimented with different ratios until I found the perfect balance that lets the floral essence shine through without being overpowering. Using culinary-grade lavender is crucial, as it brings out the best flavor and aroma in these cupcakes.

I remember baking these for a friend's birthday, and the compliments just kept coming! To ensure they rise beautifully, I use room temperature ingredients and fold in the dry ingredients gently to maintain airiness. These cupcakes are a must-try for any floral dessert lover!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Aromatic floral notes paired with the sweetness of honey create a unique flavor.
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
A show-stopping treat perfect for any occasion.

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of these Lavender Honey Cupcakes lies in the quality of the ingredients used. Culinary lavender is essential for providing that subtle floral flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cupcakes. Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender, as it is specifically grown and processed for consumption. If you cannot find culinary lavender, dried edible flowers can be a pleasant alternative, although the flavor may differ slightly.

Honey plays a dual role in this recipe—both as a sweetener and a source of moisture. The type of honey you choose can influence the flavor profile significantly. For example, wildflower honey will impart a more complex taste compared to clover honey, which is milder. If you're looking for a floral note, consider lavender or orange blossom honey, as they pair wonderfully with the lavender flavor.

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

To achieve light and fluffy cupcakes, it’s vital not to overmix the batter once the flour and buttermilk are added. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in denser cupcakes rather than the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture we desire. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you no longer see dry flour for the best results.

When it comes to baking, each oven can vary in temperature accuracy. Keep an eye on the cupcakes as they bake; check them around the 20-minute mark. They are done when they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. An inserted toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lavender Honey Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup honey
2 tsp culinary lavender
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk

For the Honey Lavender Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup honey
1 tsp culinary lavender, finely ground
2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients Notes

Instructions

Instructions for Baking

Prepare the Oven and Muffin Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground lavender. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Honey

Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add honey and vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full with batter and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool the Cupcakes

Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in honey, ground lavender, and enough milk to achieve desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, decorate them with the lavender honey frosting using a piping bag or a knife.

Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy your beautifully frosted Lavender Honey Cupcakes with a cup of tea or coffee!

Final Touches

Pro Tips

For a stronger lavender flavor, steep the lavender in the buttermilk for about 15 minutes before using. Make sure to strain it before adding to the batter.

Storing and Freezing

These Lavender Honey Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place un-frosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-wrapped. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To thaw the cupcakes, simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Frosting can be made ahead as well; just allow it to come back to room temperature before using it for a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Lavender Honey Cupcakes with a light herbal tea, such as chamomile or earl grey, to enhance the floral notes of the cupcakes. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to create a more indulgent dessert experience. Consider garnishing with a few sprigs of lavender or edible flower petals for visual appeal.

For special occasions, consider decorating the cupcakes with a sprinkle of edible glitter or a drizzle of additional honey for an elevated touch. Presentation can elevate even a simple treat, making it feel luxurious and festive. Your guests will be delighted by both the flavor and the charm these cupcakes bring to the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lavender from my garden?

Yes, but make sure it's culinary-grade and free from pesticides.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk.

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, freeze un-frosted cupcakes for up to three months. Thaw before frosting.