Introduction

Indulge in the delicate flavors of spring with these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. The bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon combined with the floral essence of culinary lavender create a cookie that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or simply as a delightful treat, these cookies are sure to transport your taste buds to a sunlit garden.

What Makes It Special

These cookies are unique not only for their exquisite flavor combination but also for their melt-in-your-mouth texture. The use of high-quality butter and the traditional shortbread method results in a rich, buttery cookie that crumbles beautifully. The addition of lavender adds a subtle floral note that elevates the cookie from ordinary to extraordinary, making them a perfect pairing with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, chopped lavender, and salt; set aside.
3. Cream Butter: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Shape the Cookies: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Chill the Cookies: For best results, chill the cut-out cookies in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest, and ensure your lavender is culinary-grade.
• Experiment with Shapes: These cookies can be cut into various shapes for different occasions, from hearts to stars.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. Their unique flavor profile and buttery texture make them a standout choice for tea time or as a sweet gift. If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how they turned out! Please leave a comment below and follow us for more delicious and creative recipes!