This week my son and I took a visit to Mayfair lavender field near Banstead, Surrey. At the time of writing the UK has been experiencing disorder and riots, and it’s hard to believe that Croydon (which has been hit hard by the riots) is only a few miles away from this beautiful, relaxing and peaceful place.
Lavender is known for aiding sleep and relaxation, however it also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been known to heal and soothe insect bites and burns.
Lavender can also be used in baking and the dried lavender buds can be used in biscuits, scones and cakes.
We had the pleasure of sampling one of Mayfield’s lavender cupcakes and lavender shortbread biscuits.
They just had the right about of lavender buds in them, the trick is to use a few buds, as the lavender flavour can overpower the other flavours in your baking.
Use these sparingly in your usual cupcake recipe (I would omit the vanilla extract). Also lavender pairs well with chocolate.
You can also use lavender buds in sugar to create ‘lavender sugar’. This could work as an alternative to adding the buds in your baking.
Mayfield Lavender has no entrance or parking fee, they use the proceeds from their lovely shop to support their business. They also sell teas, coffee and cupcakes so you can sit and have some refreshments, whilst overlooking the lavender field.
The lavender continues to flower and according to their blog the lavender is blooming much later than previous years. They expect to harvest it in September, so visit soon if you’re in the area.
Until next time, Bake and Be Happy!
After driving past here on the way to ikea i turned round and stopped and it is such a find especially their shortbread hummm. Going to make lavender cupcaked tommorow with some of their dried lavender and oil
Kelly, I went a second time and tried the shortbread, I thought it was delicious too:) Good luck with the cupcakes.