When we think about baking, our minds often drift to the sweet aromas of vanilla, chocolate, and cinnamon. While these are classic and beloved flavors, there’s a whole world of herbs and spices waiting to elevate your baked goods to new heights. Baking with herbs and spices not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth and complexity to your treats, making them stand out. In this blog post, we’ll explore the exciting realm of baking with herbs and spices and how you can seamlessly integrate them into your creations using the versatile Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer.
The Magic of Herbs and Spices in Baking
Herbs and spices have been used in cooking for centuries, adding unique flavors and health benefits to various dishes. However, their role in baking is often underestimated. Incorporating these aromatic ingredients can transform ordinary baked goods into extraordinary culinary delights. Here’s how you can start baking with herbs and spices to create delicious, flavorful treats.
Common Herbs and Spices for Baking
Before diving into recipes, let’s look at some common herbs and spices that work wonderfully in baking:
- Cinnamon: Warm and sweet, cinnamon is a staple in many baked goods, from cinnamon rolls to spiced cookies.
- Nutmeg: Often paired with cinnamon, nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth.
- Ginger: Adds a zesty, spicy kick, perfect for gingerbread and spiced cakes.
- Cardamom: With its citrusy and floral notes, cardamom is excellent in cakes, cookies, and breads.
- Lavender: Offers a floral, slightly sweet flavor, ideal for cookies and cakes.
- Rosemary: Savory and aromatic, rosemary pairs well with citrus and savory baked goods.
- Basil: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor, great for savory muffins and breads.
- Thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme works well in savory breads and biscuits.
- Cloves: Strong and pungent, cloves add warmth and spice, often used in holiday baking.
- Sage: Earthy and slightly peppery, sage is great in savory scones and breads.
Tips for Baking with Herbs and Spices
- Start Small: Herbs and spices can be potent. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to avoid overpowering your baked goods.
- Fresh vs. Dried: Fresh herbs offer a vibrant flavor, while dried herbs are more concentrated. Adjust quantities accordingly.
- Pairing Flavors: Some herbs and spices complement each other beautifully. Experiment with combinations like cinnamon and nutmeg, or rosemary and lemon.
- Infusing: For a more subtle flavor, infuse herbs and spices in your liquids (milk, cream, butter) before adding them to your batter or dough.
Recipes Featuring Herbs and Spices
Now, let’s put our knowledge into practice with some delightful recipes. These recipes will utilize the power of the Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer to make the process easier and more enjoyable.
1. Lavender and Lemon Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp dried lavender
- zest of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp sea salt
Instructions:
- Using your Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and dried lavender until well combined.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten slightly with a fork. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
2. Rosemary and Olive Oil Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsps fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsps sea salt
Instructions:
- In the mixing bowl of your Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the olive oil and mix on low speed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, and chopped rosemary.
- Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed with the dough hook attachment until a dough forms.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
3. Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Using your Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer, beat together the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
Baking with herbs and spices opens up a world of flavors and textures that can transform your baked goods from ordinary to extraordinary. With the help of the Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer, you can effortlessly mix, knead, and blend your way to delicious creations that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making a delicate lavender and lemon cookie, a savory rosemary and olive oil bread, or a spiced pumpkin loaf, incorporating herbs and spices will add depth and complexity to your baking.
So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t hesitate to reach for those herbs and spices. Experiment, have fun, and let your Kitchenin KM50 Stand Mixer do the heavy lifting. Happy baking!
