Elegant Afternoon Tea Delight: Lavender Shortbread with Clotted Cream

Introduction

Welcome to the world of afternoon tea, where elegance and taste meet in perfect harmony. Today, we bring you an exquisite treat that will elevate your tea time experience – Lavender Shortbread with Clotted Cream. This delightful combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a visually stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

This recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The lavender shortbread offers a delicate floral aroma, while the clotted cream adds a rich, buttery texture. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making these delectable treats. From selecting the finest ingredients to baking tips and serving suggestions, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the details and make your next afternoon tea unforgettable.

Ingredients

To ensure the best results, it is crucial to use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Shortbread:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender flowers
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
• For the Clotted Cream:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to purchase fresh and organic ingredients whenever possible. The quality of the butter, sugar, and lavender will greatly affect the final product. For the lavender, choose culinary-grade dried flowers for the best flavor.

Method

Making the Shortbread

The first step in creating this elegant dessert is to prepare the shortbread. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the dried lavender flowers and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
4. Shape the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out rounds or squares.
5. Bake: Place the shortbread rounds or squares on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Making the Clotted Cream

Clotted cream is a traditional English dessert topping made from thickened, double cream. It has a rich, buttery flavor and a smooth, velvety texture. Here’s how to make it:

1. Heat the cream: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and whipping cream over medium heat until it reaches 180°F (82°C).
2. Cook slowly: Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Make sure not to let the cream boil or it may curdle.
3. Strain and chill: Once cooked, strain the cream through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard any solids. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the cream to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator overnight.
4. Serve: When ready to serve, spoon the chilled clotted cream into a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve prepared both the shortbread and clotted cream, it’s time to assemble your elegant afternoon tea delight. Here are some tips to help you present your creation beautifully:

• Layering: Arrange the shortbread on a plate or tiered stand. Top each piece with a generous dollop of clotted cream. You can also add fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
• Pairing: Serve with a selection of teas, such as Earl Grey or Jasmine Green Tea. These flavors complement the lavender shortbread and clotted cream perfectly.
• Decoration