Gourmet White Chocolate Lavender Strawberries offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. By infusing white chocolate with floral notes of lavender, this recipe elevates the traditional chocolate-covered strawberry into something truly special. Perfect for a romantic dessert or a unique party treat, these strawberries are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Strawberries are the base of this recipe, providing a juicy, sweet contrast to the creamy chocolate. Choose ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor. White chocolate is rich and sweet, pairing beautifully with lavender. Make sure to use a high-quality brand to avoid waxy or overly sweet results. Dried culinary lavender adds a floral hint that elevates the taste; ensure it's labeled for culinary use. Coconut oil helps in melting and infusing the lavender flavor into the chocolate, offering a subtle nutty essence. A pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
These strawberries are perfect on their own but can be served alongside a cheese platter for a sophisticated touch. Pair them with a glass of chilled champagne to enhance the flavors. Alternatively, use them to top a simple vanilla cake or alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
First, start by preparing the strawberries: rinse them under cool water, and make sure to dry them thoroughly. If there's any moisture left, the chocolate won't stick properly. Now, set them aside on a clean kitchen towel.
Next, on to the flavor infusion. In a small saucepan, add the coconut oil and dried lavender. Gently heat on low for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the oil warm enough to draw out the lavender's flavor but not so hot that it burns.
Once the oil is infused, strain out the lavender with a fine mesh sieve. You’ll be left with a fragrant lavender-infused oil, ready to mix with the chocolate.
Now, melt your white chocolate. You can do this using a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. The key is to melt it slowly to avoid any burning or seizing.
With the chocolate melted, stir in the infused oil and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until it's all smooth and ready for dipping.
Dip each strawberry into the lavender white chocolate, ensuring they're well-coated. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking. Let them sit and set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge if you're in a hurry.