Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe

Name: Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers; 2 scoops vanilla ice cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating refreshing drinks, and this Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe is a perfect example. The combination of floral lavender and creamy vanilla makes for an aromatic and indulgent treat that’s perfect for warm days. I’ve spent some time perfecting the infusion process to ensure that the lavender flavor shines without being overwhelming. Whether enjoyed on a sunny patio or as a pick-me-up in the afternoon, this recipe always brings a smile to my face.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:30:28.339Z

When I first tried a lavender-infused beverage, I was captivated by the delicate floral notes that complemented the sweetness of the vanilla. I decided to recreate that experience at home, experimenting with different ratios of lavender and vanilla until I reached the perfect balance. This frappe not only satisfies my sweet tooth, but it also offers a bit of sophistication that elevates a simple drink to something special.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is the infusion method. I steep dried lavender in milk for a few minutes to extract its essential oils, creating a rich flavor without overpowering the drink. It’s a simple technique that anyone can master and truly makes a difference in the overall experience of this delightful frappe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate floral aroma that awakens your senses
Creamy texture that beautifully blends flavors
Easy to prepare for any occasion

Understanding Lavender Infusion

Infusing lavender into milk requires careful attention to temperature and steeping time. Heating the milk gently over low heat is essential; avoid boiling as it can scald the milk and alter the flavor profile. When the lavender flowers are added, they should steep for approximately 10 minutes, allowing their flavor to develop without overwhelming the milk's natural sweetness. Straining the lavender ensures a smooth, floral blend in your frappe, preventing any gritty texture.

If you're looking to enhance the lavender flavor even further, consider increasing the amount of dried lavender flowers slightly, but be cautious not to exceed two tablespoons. Too much can lead to a soapy taste. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can also steep for a shorter time, around 5-7 minutes, to create a more subtle infusion.

Crafting the Perfect Frappe Texture

The texture of your Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Using two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream adds not only creaminess but also a sweetness that balances the lavender's floral note. Blending the mixture until completely smooth is vital to avoid any ice chunks that might disrupt the velvety consistency. If you desire an even thicker frappe, add more ice cubes while blending—a handful usually does the trick.

For those who enjoy a richer flavor, consider substituting part of the milk with a nut-based milk like almond or cashew. These alternatives provide an added layer of nuttiness that pairs beautifully with both lavender and vanilla. Ensure that whatever milk you use, it is unsweetened to maintain balance with the honey or ice cream.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving your Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe immediately will yield the best texture and flavor. However, if you find you have leftovers, you can store the blended frappe in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Just remember to pre-chill your glasses; pouring the frappe into cold glasses will keep it frosty for a longer time, enhancing the drinking experience.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this frappe with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers as a garnish to elevate its presentation. Additionally, you can create a layered effect by pouring the frappe over a layer of lavender-infused syrup at the bottom of the glass, which introduces a lovely visual element as well as an additional burst of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Frappe

1 cup milk
2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers
2 scoops vanilla ice cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Prepare Lavender Milk

In a small saucepan, combine the milk and dried lavender flowers. Heat over low heat until warm, then remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain the milk to remove the lavender.

Blend the Frappe

In a blender, combine the lavender-infused milk, vanilla ice cream, vanilla extract, and honey (if using). Add a handful of ice cubes for a thicker consistency, then blend until smooth.

Serve

Pour the frappe into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender or a vanilla bean if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

For a stronger lavender flavor, you can adjust the amount of dried lavender used in steeping. Just be cautious, as too much can make the drink taste soapy.

Ingredient Substitutions

When preparing the Lavender Infused Vanilla Frappe, it's beneficial to know that dried lavender can be substituted with culinary lavender essential oil if you desire an alternative method. A few drops can infuse the milk without needing the infusion process. However, use this substitution sparingly, as lavender oil is potent and can easily overpower the drink.

For those who prefer a plant-based option, the ice cream can be swapped with vegan vanilla ice cream or a frozen banana for a healthier alternative. Frozen bananas not only provide creaminess but also add natural sweetness and a hint of banana flavor that can complement the lavender beautifully.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with flavors can result in delightful new versions of this frappe. Try infusing the milk with a hint of chamomile alongside the lavender for a soothing herbal touch. This combination is particularly refreshing and perfect for a calming afternoon drink.

Another exciting variation is to add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before blending. This will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing tang that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the ice cream and the floral notes of the lavender, creating a unique and uplifting beverage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh lavender. Just slightly increase the amount, since fresh herbs tend to be less concentrated than dried.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I sweeten this frappe if I don’t have honey?

You can use sugar, agave syrup, or any sweetener you prefer. Just adjust to taste.

→ Can I make this in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the lavender milk ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just blend when ready to serve.