Caramelized Figs With Lavender Honey and Cream

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons dried lavender blossoms
• 8 fresh figs, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

1. 1

   Combine honey, lemon zest, and lavender in small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer.

2. 2

   Continue simmering for 1-2 minutes stirring occasionally.

3. 3

   Remove from heat and let stand for 10-15 minutes.

4. 4

   Meanwhile arrange fig halves in a cake pan or on a baking sheet and broil, 4-6 inches from the flame, for 5-8 minutes or until they are bubbling and just slightly brown on top.

5. 5

   Strain honey mixture into a small bowl and add the lemon juice.

6. 6

   Pour heavy cream into a medium bowl and whisk until just slightly thickened.

7. 7

   The cream should still be runny--you don't want to make whipped cream.

8. 8

   Place approximately 1 tablespoon of the cream in the center of each dessert plate, arrange four fig halves on top of the cream and spoon the strained honey mixture over them.

9. 9

   Garnish with fresh mint if desired.