Lemon Lavender Cookies

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a delightful blend of floral sweetness and citrusy tang, creating a refreshingly unique treat. These cookies offer a delicate balance of bright lemon flavor with the fragrant essence of lavender, resulting in a sophisticated yet approachable dessert. Perfect for a sunny afternoon, tea parties, or whenever you’re in the mood for something a little different, these cookies elevate the classic shortbread-style cookie into something extraordinary.

The combination of lemon zest and lavender creates a refreshing, aromatic experience in every bite. The texture is tender and buttery, with just the right amount of sweetness to complement the subtle lavender flavor. Whether you’re a fan of floral flavors or simply looking to try something new, Lemon Lavender Cookies are a must-try treat.

Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, these cookies are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. The delicate lavender and bright lemon zest make them perfect for gift-giving or a homemade treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Bake up a batch and let these fragrant cookies fill your home with delicious aromas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

Lemon and lavender are an unexpected yet harmonious pairing, offering a fresh twist on traditional cookie recipes. The citrusy brightness of lemon combined with the floral notes of lavender makes these cookies stand out.

2. Simple Ingredients

Despite their gourmet taste, these cookies are made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, lemon zest, and dried lavender, which you may already have in your kitchen.

3. Elegant and Beautiful

These cookies are as lovely to look at as they are to eat. Their delicate texture and aromatic flavor make them perfect for special occasions like bridal showers, tea parties, or festive gatherings.

4. Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal effort. With a few basic steps, you’ll have a batch of cookies ready to impress your family or guests.

5. Versatile

While these cookies are perfect as they are, they can also be adapted. Add a drizzle of glaze or sprinkle some extra lavender buds on top for an added touch of flair.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Lemon zest
• Dried lavender buds
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Egg
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Variations

• Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for extra sweetness and a glossy finish.
• Sugar Dusting: After baking, lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a refined touch.
• Lavender Infusion: For a more intense lavender flavor, steep the dried lavender buds in a bit of milk or cream, then strain and add it to the dough.
• Lemon-Lavender Shortbread: If you prefer a more traditional shortbread texture, reduce the sugar slightly and skip the baking powder for a more crumbly, buttery cookie.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Prepare the Lavender

In a small bowl, crush the dried lavender buds using your fingers or a mortar and pestle to release their oils. This helps enhance the flavor in the cookies.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and crushed lavender. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Step 5: Roll and Shape the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes, whether round, oval, or even flowers for a decorative touch.

Step 6: Bake

Place the shaped cookie dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy as they are or dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Lavender: If you can find fresh lavender, you can dry it yourself by hanging it upside down in a warm, dry place for a few days.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can make the cookies tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
• Adjust the Lavender: Lavender is a potent herb, so be sure to use it sparingly. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your preference.

How to Serve

These Lemon Lavender Cookies are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For an extra special treat, serve them at a gathering with other light desserts, or pack them up in a beautiful tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender?

Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but it should be thoroughly dried before using it in the cookies. Fresh lavender contains more moisture, which could affect the texture of the dough.

2. How can I make these cookies more lemony?

For an extra punch of lemon flavor, add a bit of lemon juice to the dough or make a lemon glaze to drizzle over the cookies.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or guar gum to help with texture.

4. How do I store these cookies?

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for longer storage.

5. Can I make these cookies without lavender?

If you’re not a fan of lavender or don’t have any, you can omit it and make a simple lemon cookie instead.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges when they are done. Don’t wait for them to turn brown all over.

7. Can I use lavender oil in the cookies?

If you decide to use lavender oil, make sure it’s food-grade and use it sparingly. Only a drop or two is enough to impart the flavor.

8. Can I decorate the cookies?

Yes, you can decorate these cookies with a simple lemon glaze or even candied lemon peel for a special touch.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the recipe if you need more cookies for a party or gathering. Just be sure to adjust your baking times as necessary.

10. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead and store them in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a refreshing, fragrant treat that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the delicate, floral notes of lavender. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a special dessert or share them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to impress. With their unique flavor combination and simple preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a delightful homemade gift. Try them today and experience the perfect harmony of lemon and lavender in a cookie form!

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