Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe
Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking
I absolutely adore making this Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe, especially during warm afternoons. The delicate smell of lavender combined with the smooth taste of vanilla creates a refreshing and aromatic drink that’s both calming and invigorating. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s a wonderful treat to impress guests or simply indulge in a moment of self-care. With just a few ingredients, this frappe becomes my go-to for a quick pick-me-up while enjoying a sunny day.
When I first tried a lavender drink at a local café, I was captivated by its subtle and aromatic flavor. This inspired me to recreate a similar beverage at home. Through experimentation, I discovered that steeping dried lavender in warm milk brings out its essence beautifully.
To achieve the right balance of flavors, I paired it with high-quality vanilla extract. The addition of ice and a blender transforms it into a refreshing frappe that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, this is a drink worth savoring!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful blend of soothing lavender and rich vanilla.
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any gathering.
- This frappe is the ideal summer refreshment, brightening up any day.
Understanding Lavender in Your Frappe
Using culinary lavender in this frappe isn’t just for aroma; it imparts a subtle floral flavor that complements the vanilla perfectly. When selecting lavender, ensure it is specifically labeled as culinary. This guarantees that it’s safe for consumption and free of pesticides. The right lavender will meld with the other ingredients, creating a unique and sophisticated flavor profile that elevates a classic frappe to something truly special.
Always remember that less is more with lavender; it can easily overpower the drink if overused. In this recipe, one tablespoon strikes the ideal balance, offering just the right amount of floral notes. Infuse the lavender gently at a low to medium heat, as boiling may extract bitter flavors. The steeping process is essential, as it allows the flavors to bloom fully before being incorporated into the frappe.
Blending Techniques for the Perfect Frappe
When blending the frappe, ensure that your ice is fresh and not overly compacted. If your ice is frozen too hard or clumped together, it can lead to inconsistent blending. Start at a low speed to break up the ice before gradually increasing to high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This technique helps create a frothy texture that makes this drink so delightful to enjoy on warm afternoons.
If you prefer a thicker frappe, consider adding an extra half-cup of ice or reducing the milk slightly. Conversely, if you want a thinner drink, increase the milk gradually until you reach your desired viscosity. Don't hesitate to adjust the sweetness after blending, especially since honey can vary in sweetness. Start with a small amount and increase gradually, ensuring the flavor profile aligns with your personal taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Lavender Infusion
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
For the Frappe
- 1 cup ice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Lavender Infusion
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the dried lavender and honey, stirring until well combined. Allow the mixture to warm for about 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes, then strain to remove lavender flowers.
Blend the Frappe
In a blender, combine the lavender-infused milk, ice, vanilla extract, and sugar if using. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
Serve
Pour the frappe into glasses and top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a sprig of lavender or a sprinkle of dried lavender for an elegant touch.
Pro Tips
- For a stronger lavender flavor, you can increase the amount of dried lavender in the infusion. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much can make the drink taste perfumey.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
This Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe is best served fresh to preserve its creamy consistency and vibrant flavors. However, if you have leftovers, store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to enjoy, give it a good stir and blend again briefly with a few ice cubes for that just-made taste. Avoid freezing the mixture since dairy components can separate upon thawing.
For an elegant touch when serving, consider pairing the frappe with light pastries or cookies. The lavender notes complement baked goods like lemon scones or shortbread with citrus zest. This pairing not only elevates your drink experience but also impresses guests when hosting afternoon gatherings or tea parties.
Variations and Customizations
To add a twist to this classic recipe, consider incorporating flavored syrups such as vanilla bean or caramel. A dash of coffee or espresso can also add depth, transforming this frappe into an invigorating morning treat. Adjust the vanilla extract amount or even replace it with almond extract for a different flavor profile that still pairs beautifully with lavender.
For a vegan option, swap the milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk. Ensure you use a plant-based sweetener like agave or maple syrup instead of honey. These substitutions maintain the drink's delicious essence while accommodating various dietary preferences, allowing everyone to indulge in this refreshing summer beverage.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but be sure to use a smaller amount since it has a stronger flavor. Also, ensure it’s culinary grade.
→ Can I make this frappe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with a dairy-free option like almond, oat, or coconut milk.
→ How can I store the lavender infusion?
You can store any leftover lavender infusion in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
→ What can I substitute honey with?
You can use agave syrup, maple syrup, or any preferred sweetener in the same amount.
Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe
I absolutely adore making this Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe, especially during warm afternoons. The delicate smell of lavender combined with the smooth taste of vanilla creates a refreshing and aromatic drink that’s both calming and invigorating. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s a wonderful treat to impress guests or simply indulge in a moment of self-care. With just a few ingredients, this frappe becomes my go-to for a quick pick-me-up while enjoying a sunny day.
What You'll Need
For the Lavender Infusion
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
For the Frappe
- 1 cup ice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
How-To Steps
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the dried lavender and honey, stirring until well combined. Allow the mixture to warm for about 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes, then strain to remove lavender flowers.
In a blender, combine the lavender-infused milk, ice, vanilla extract, and sugar if using. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
Pour the frappe into glasses and top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a sprig of lavender or a sprinkle of dried lavender for an elegant touch.
Extra Tips
- For a stronger lavender flavor, you can increase the amount of dried lavender in the infusion. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much can make the drink taste perfumey.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g