As I whisked together the ingredients for my Lavender Lemon Tea Bread, the enticing scent of floral lavender wafted through my kitchen, instantly whisking me away to a sun-drenched English garden. This delightful Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze is as inviting as it sounds, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy brightness. Not only is it wonderfully easy to make—yielding a luscious, moist loaf—but it also serves as the ideal accompaniment to your afternoon tea or coffee rituals. With the floral notes of lavender and a zesty lemon glaze that shine in contrast, this bread elevates any ordinary snack into an extraordinary moment of indulgence. Curious to discover just how this decadent loaf can brighten your day? Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why is This Lavender Tea Bread Special?
Unique Flavor Profile: The enchanting combination of lavender and lemon creates a symphony of taste, transforming your usual tea time into a fragrant escape.
Effortless Enjoyment: This recipe is designed for all skill levels—simply whisk and bake for incredible results.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon gathering or a cozy night in, this bread is sure to impress guests or satisfy quiet cravings.
Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to experiment by swapping lavender with lemon zest for a citrusy twist, allowing your creativity to shine!
A Slice of Comfort: Each bite offers a dense, moist texture wrapped in a glossy lemon glaze, elevating your homemade treats to a new level. Pair with a hot cup of tea, like Cheesy Garlic Bread or Garlic Butter Steak for a delightful feast.
Lavender Tea Bread Recipe Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for this delightful Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze.
For the Bread
- Whole Milk – Provides moisture and serves as a base for infusing lavender flavor.
- Dried Lavender Buds – Adds floral notes to the bread; can substitute with 3 tbsp of fresh lavender for a fresh twist.
- Butter (softened) – Contributes richness and helps create a smooth batter.
- White Sugar – The sweetness component, balancing the floral notes of the lavender.
- Eggs – Provides structure and binds all the delicious ingredients together.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the depth of flavor, complementing the lavender.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main ingredient that gives bread its structure.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent ensures the bread rises beautifully.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Lemon Glaze
- Powdered Sugar (sifted) – Forms the base of the glaze, adding essential sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Introduces tanginess to balance the bread’s sweetness perfectly.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds a subtle hint of flavor to the glaze.
- Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for a smooth finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While it warms up, prepare your 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it, or opt for parchment paper lining for easy bread removal later. This step ensures even baking, setting the stage for your Lavender Tea Bread to rise beautifully.
Step 2: Infuse the Milk
In a saucepan, combine whole milk and dried lavender buds over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until the milk simmers gently, infusing it with the calming scent and flavor of lavender—approximately 5 minutes. Once fragrant, remove from heat and let cool slightly before moving to the next step, allowing the floral notes to deepen.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of white sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, around 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air into your Lavender Tea Bread recipe, resulting in a tender crumb that elevates each slice.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, introduce 2 large eggs to the creamed mixture, beating each one in individually until fully combined and the mixture is airy and light. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract at this stage, enhancing the flavor profile. These additions will create a delightful base for the rest of your tea bread.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these ingredients improves distribution and ensures the baking powder activates properly. This step is crucial for the structure of your Lavender Tea Bread, providing the lift needed as it bakes.
Step 6: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
When the milk has cooled slightly, strain out the lavender buds if desired, and gradually incorporate the infused milk into the butter mixture. Alternate adding the dry ingredients from the previous step, mixing on a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your Lavender Tea Bread light and fluffy.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—when it comes out clean, your Lavender Tea Bread is ready. Keep an eye on it, as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze the Bread
Once the bread is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, whisk together the glaze ingredients, starting with 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar and adjusting with lemon juice and milk for your desired consistency before pouring it over the warm bread.
Make Ahead Options
These Lavender Lemon Tea Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. If you prefer, you can bake the bread ahead and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best results, glaze it just before serving to maintain that vibrant finish. Whether you’re planning a special afternoon tea or simply want a delightful snack ready on hand, this Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze will always deliver just as delicious results!
How to Store and Freeze Lavender Lemon Tea Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the Lavender Lemon Tea Bread, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped. It will last up to 1 week in the fridge.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply slice and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warm.
Lavender Tea Bread Recipe Variations
Feeling inspired? Let’s dive into some delightful variations to customize your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread and make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk for a deliciously dairy-free option. This choice keeps the bread moist while enhancing the flavor profile.
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Fresh Lavender: Replace dried lavender buds with 3 tablespoons of fresh lavender for an even bolder floral taste. Fresh herbs can make a world of difference in your baking!
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Citrus Twist: Substitute dried lavender with lemon zest for an alternative citrusy flavor that brightens the loaf without floral notes.
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a lovely crunch. The added texture complements the soft bread beautifully.
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Herbal Infusion: Try using a blend of herbal teas, like chamomile or mint, in place of lavender for a unique herbal twist. These aromatic flavors will take your tea time to a whole new level.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a gluten-free version of this lovely bread, perfectly friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
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Flavor Booster: Enhance the lemon glaze by adding a splash of elderflower cordial for a sweet floral accent that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
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Spiced Version: Mix in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for warm, aromatic spice notes that elevate your bread to new heights.
Infuse your everyday baking with creativity and explore personal twists on this fantastic Lavender Lemon Tea Bread recipe! Don’t forget to enjoy it alongside your favorite cup of tea or a slice of Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for a perfect afternoon treat!
What to Serve with Lavender Lemon Tea Bread
Imagine a charming afternoon gathering, where the sweet scent of floral notes fills the air, making every bite of your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread an enchanting experience.
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Delicate Cucumber Sandwiches: These light bites complement the bread’s sweetness, adding a refreshing crunch that enhances tea time elegance.
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Silky Cream Cheese Spread: A smooth cream cheese layer adds tanginess, perfectly balancing the floral flavors of the tea bread for a refined pairing.
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Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot notes in this classic tea echo the lavender aromatics, creating a harmonious sip alongside your delicious loaf.
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Scones with Clotted Cream: The rich scones bring a lovely texture contrast, while the creamy topping offers an indulgent counterpart to the sweet, moist bread.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a burst of freshness, brightening each mouthful with a juicy pop of flavor.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness of the Lavender Lemon Tea Bread, creating a comforting, decadent treat for any time of day.
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Chamomile Iced Tea: This soothing beverage cools down the internal warmth from every delightful slice, offering a calming experience during a sunny afternoon.
Elevate your gatherings or quiet moments with these exquisite pairings that beautifully complement the enchanting flavors of your Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze.
Expert Tips for Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze
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Infusion Importance: Make sure to properly infuse the lavender with the milk; the flavor is key! Skipping this step can result in a lackluster taste.
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Measure Carefully: Use a light hand when measuring dried lavender. Too much can overpower your bread, so start with a little and adjust to your preference.
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Cool Before Slicing: Allow the Lavender Tea Bread to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the structure holds and prevents a crumbly mess.
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Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes to ensure perfect results.
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Creative Variations: Feel free to swap lavender for lemon zest for a different flavor dimension, allowing you to explore your creativity with this adaptable recipe!
Lavender Lemon Tea Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lavender for the recipe?
When selecting lavender, choose buds that are vibrantly colored and fragrant, avoiding any that feel dry or crumbly. Fresh lavender should have a bright green stem and the buds should be tightly closed. If using dried lavender, ensure it’s of culinary quality, as many varieties can be too strong or not safe for consumption.
What is the best way to store Lavender Lemon Tea Bread?
To maintain the freshness of your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week to keep it moist. If you prefer freezing, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag—that way, it stays delicious for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Lavender Lemon Tea Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread, start by wrapping it in plastic wrap, ensuring it is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. After wrapping, add an additional layer of aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours, and it will taste just as delightful as the day you baked it!
What should I do if my bread is too dense?
If your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread comes out too dense, it might be a sign of overmixing or the flour being packed too tightly. To troubleshoot for next time, try gently folding ingredients together rather than mixing vigorously. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising. If all else fails, adding a teaspoon of extra baking powder can help lighten your loaf!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to use culinary lavender and check for any other potential allergens, such as gluten in the flour. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. For a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works well instead of whole milk, and ensure to choose plant-based butter to keep it vegan-friendly.
How long can I keep Lavender Lemon Tea Bread?
When well-stored, your Lavender Lemon Tea Bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature, or for about 1 week if refrigerated. If you decide to freeze it, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping, or the moisture trapped inside will make it soggy. Enjoying this delightful treat fresh or after a little time in the refrigerator offers a wonderful taste experience!
Lavender Tea Bread Recipe with Lemon Glaze for Cozy Afternoons
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a saucepan, heat whole milk and dried lavender buds until gently simmering for about 5 minutes.
- Cream together softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating in between, and then stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually mix the infused milk into the butter mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Prepare the glaze while cooling.
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