Mary Berry Lavender Shortbread

Discover the delight of making Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread, a recipe that combines the classic sweetness and buttery texture of shortbread with the subtle, floral notes of lavender. This treat is perfect for a mid-morning snack, as a sophisticated addition to a tea party, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Brief Description of Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread

Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread is a simple yet elegant biscuit that infuses the timeless taste of shortbread with the distinctive aroma and flavor of lavender. The recipe results in biscuits with a delicate floral note, which, when done right, avoids overpowering the senses and instead offers a hint of lavender that enhances the overall taste.

Cultural or Historical Context

Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit typically made from one part white sugar, two parts butter, and three parts flour. The addition of lavender gives this classic treat a modern twist, combining the culinary traditions of the United Kingdom with the contemporary appreciation for herbal flavors.

Ingredients List for Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread

• Softened unsalted butter: 175g
• Fresh, unsprayed, finely chopped lavender flowers: 2 tbsp
• Caster sugar: 100g
• Plain flour: 225g
• Demerara sugar: 25g

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by mixing the softened butter and finely chopped lavender flowers, maximizing the lavender's flavor release.
2. Incorporate caster sugar, followed by gradually mixing in plain flour until the dough is smooth.
3. Form the dough into two logs, coat them with demerara sugar, chill until firm, then slice and bake until lightly golden.

Storage and Reheating

Store the shortbread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week. These biscuits also freeze well, making them a convenient treat to bake in advance and enjoy later.

Nutritional Information

Each biscuit approximately provides 141 kcal, with notable amounts of carbohydrates and fats, making them an indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread

• Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh? Yes, but remember that dried lavender has a more potent flavor, so you should use less.
• How long can I store these shortbreads? They keep well in an airtight container for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely, the dough can be chilled in the refrigerator or frozen, ready to be sliced and baked when needed.

Explore the subtlety of Mary Berry's Lavender Shortbread, where the crisp texture meets the aromatic charm of lavender, creating a biscuit that is as delicious to taste as it is elegant to present​​​​.

This recipe is adapted from Mary Berry’s Baking Bible, ensuring that you're trying a creation from one of Britain's most cherished culinary figures.