Preparation

In Tolkien's Middle-earth, the Elves of Lothlórien gift Frodo and the Fellowship lembas bread—a nutritious, long-lasting waybread wrapped in leaves. Our interpretation uses honey and lavender to create an otherworldly flavor that's both comforting and subtly magical.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Finely grind the dried lavender buds using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder until they're nearly powdered.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
4. Add honey and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together both flours, ground lavender, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
7. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
8. Cut into small rectangles (approximately 2x3 inches). These should be small—remember, a little lembas goes a long way!
9. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart. Use a fork to prick each rectangle several times.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are just barely golden. Don't overbake—lembas should remain pale and delicate.
11. Cool completely on a wire rack.
12. To serve in true Elven fashion, wrap each piece in a blanched grape or banana leaf, securing with twine.

Store wrapped lembas in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. The flavor actually improves after a day or two as the lavender mellows. Perfect for your next quest or simply for elevenses.