Lavender Honey Chocolate Fondue

Name: Lavender Honey Chocolate Fondue
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, halved; Banana slices; Marshmallows; Pound cake cubes; Pretzel sticks

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in sweet treats, and this Lavender Honey Chocolate Fondue is one of my favorites! The combination of rich chocolate and delicate lavender flavors creates an irresistible experience that's perfect for sharing. Whether it's a cozy night in or a special celebration, I enjoy the interactive nature of fouduing—a fun way to dip fruits, marshmallows, or cakes into the warm chocolate. You'll find that the floral hints of lavender transform this classic dessert into something truly unique.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:38:31.425Z

When I first paired lavender with chocolate, I was surprised by how perfectly they complemented each other. The light, floral notes of lavender add a wonderful depth to the rich, velvety chocolate, creating a balance that is simply divine. I’ve experimented with a few different types of honey, and I find that wildflower honey works beautifully, enhancing the overall sweetness and adding subtle complexity.

Another tip I discovered is to let the chocolate cool for a minute after melting. This way, it thickens just a bit, helping the fruits and other dippers grab onto that silky chocolate goodness without it running off. The result is a delightful fondue experience that invites everyone around the table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fragrant lavender
A unique twist on traditional chocolate fondue
Perfect for gatherings, date nights, or a special treat

      

Mastering the Lavender Infusion

Creating the lavender infusion is a crucial step that enhances the fondue's flavor. Be sure to use culinary-grade dried lavender only, as other varieties may contain additives or fragrances that are not suitable for consumption. When heating the cream, bring it to a gentle simmer rather than a boil. This process helps to extract the delicate oils from the lavender without overcooking, which can lead to a bitter taste. Allowing the lavender to steep for 10 minutes after heating ensures a more pronounced floral note, so keep an eye on the clock!

If you find yourself short on dried lavender, consider using a few drops of high-quality lavender extract as a substitute. Typically, 1 teaspoon of extract can replace 2 tablespoons of dried lavender, but be cautious with the amount; you can always add more to taste. Additionally, if you're sensitive to floral flavors, adjust the steeping time to around 5 minutes to keep it subtle while still benefiting from that unique, aromatic essence.

Perfecting the Chocolate Mélange

When melting the chocolate, use a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl set over a pot of simmering water. This indirect heating method prevents the chocolate from seizing, which can happen with direct heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is glossy and smooth, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. If you inadvertently burn the chocolate even slightly, it can affect the entire mixture's flavor, so always opt for gentle heat to avoid any mishaps.

For a richer flavor profile, consider using a mix of dark and milk chocolate. An equal blend can provide a creamier texture while still retaining the depth of dark chocolate. If you enjoy experimenting, try adding a splash of orange liqueur or a sprinkle of sea salt to the melted chocolate for additional complexity—it elevates the overall fondue experience in a delightful way.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The fondue’s interactive aspect makes it a joy for gatherings. While fruits and marshmallows are classics, I love introducing complementary dippers like roasted nuts or even sliced apples drizzled with lemon juice to prevent browning. Just remember to prep your dippers in bite-sized pieces for easy handling. Keeping the fondue warm can be as simple as placing it over a low flame, but always check to ensure it doesn't thicken too much; if that happens, gently stir in a bit more cream.

If you're looking for a make-ahead option, prepare the chocolate mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for quick enjoyment. This fondue can also be scaled for larger gatherings—double the ingredients for extra servings, but be cautious while melting the larger batch to ensure a smooth texture throughout.

Ingredients

For the Fondue

200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Dipping

Fresh strawberries, halved
Banana slices
Marshmallows
Pound cake cubes
Pretzel sticks

Instructions

Prepare the Lavender Infusion

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Once it's warm, add the dried lavender and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 10 minutes to maximize the lavender flavor.

Melt the Chocolate

Strain the cream to remove the lavender, then return it to the saucepan. Add the dark chocolate, honey, and vanilla extract to the cream. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the chocolate mixture to a fondue pot or a heatproof bowl. Keep warm, and serve with your favorite dippers. Enjoy the creamy, aromatic experience of dipping and savoring!

Pro Tips

For an aromatic touch, consider garnishing with a few sprigs of fresh lavender or edible flowers when serving. Experimenting with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, can also provide a delightful variation on this classic fondue.

Ingredient Benefits

Heavy cream is essential for achieving the luxurious texture of this fondue. Its fat content not only helps create a creamy consistency but also carries flavors effectively, enriching the overall taste profile. If you're looking for lighter alternatives, consider using half-and-half or a coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though this may alter the final taste and mouthfeel slightly.

Dark chocolate plays a pivotal role in the flavor base. A chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher offers an intense richness that balances beautifully with the sweetness of honey. If you prefer a sweeter fondue, don't hesitate to choose a lower cocoa percentage, but be aware that this will alter the complexity of flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate fondue becomes too thick as it cools, adding a small amount of warm cream can help restore the desired dipping consistency. It's important to stir continuously until integrated properly; otherwise, you may create lumps that are difficult to dissolve. To avoid such issues, aim for a smooth and glossy texture right after melting the chocolate, which should maintain its fluidity for dipping.

In the event your fondue seizes when mixing in the chocolate or cream, you can rescue it by adding a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut or vegetable oil) to re-emulsify the mixture. Stir over low heat until it comes back together. This technique is a handy trick that can save your fondue and keep the gathering going smoothly!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, but you will need to use less, around half the amount, as fresh lavender is more potent than dried.

→ How can I store leftover chocolate fondue?

You can store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What other dippers work well with chocolate fondue?

You can use a variety of dippers such as apples, pears, graham crackers, or even biscotti for a crunchy twist.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute dark chocolate with a vegan chocolate alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.