A Floral and Citrus Symphony

Lavender Tea Bread with Lemon Glaze is a light, fragrant, and perfectly sweetened treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. This delightful bread combines the subtle floral notes of dried lavender flowers with the zesty freshness of lemon, creating a beautiful balance of flavors. The finishing touch—a tangy lemon glaze—adds just the right amount of sweetness and a glossy finish, making this bread an ideal treat for brunches, afternoon tea, or a simple, elegant snack any time of day.

What You’ll Need: Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon milk

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Lavender Tea Bread

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. This will be your dry mixture.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and creates a fluffy texture for the bread.
3. Add the Eggs
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain the creamy texture of the batter.
4. Combine Everything
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth consistency.
   • Stir in the dried lavender flowers, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The lavender adds a floral aroma, while the lemon provides a bright, zesty flavor.
5. Bake the Bread
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates the bread is fully baked and moist.
6. Cool Completely
   • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
7. Prepare the Lemon Glaze
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
8. Glaze the Bread
   • Once the bread is fully cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Techniques for a Perfect Lavender Tea Bread

• Choosing the Right Lavender: Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender for a safe and delicious floral flavor. Non-culinary lavender may be too strong or contain chemicals.
• Milk Variations: Feel free to substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread instead of a light and airy texture.
• Storing the Bread: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze the bread (unglazed) for up to a month—just thaw and glaze before serving.
• Variations: For a citrus twist, try adding orange zest and juice instead of lemon. You can also sprinkle a few extra lavender flowers on top of the glaze for a decorative touch.

A Bread Worth Baking

Lavender Tea Bread with Lemon Glaze is not just another loaf—it’s a fragrant, citrus-infused experience perfect for any occasion. The combination of floral lavender and zesty lemon creates a delicate yet flavorful bread that’s both refreshing and comforting. The added touch of lemon glaze makes each slice shine, both in flavor and appearance. It’s a simple, elegant treat that elevates any tea time or gathering. Bake this bread to enjoy a taste of floral delight!