Lemon Lavender Cookies

Lemon Lavender Cookies combine the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon with the delicate floral notes of lavender. These cookies are soft, buttery, and infused with aromatic lavender, making them a unique and elegant treat. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a delicious afternoon snack, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite.

The combination of lemon zest and culinary lavender provides a perfect balance of sweetness and floral complexity. Topped with a light lemon glaze and garnished with additional lavender buds, these cookies are not only tasty but visually appealing. Their soft texture and bright citrus flavor are a refreshing departure from the usual cookie recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The pairing of lemon and lavender creates a sophisticated flavor profile that stands out from ordinary cookie recipes.

2. Soft and Tender Texture

These cookies are delightfully soft and chewy, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

3. Easy to Make

Despite their gourmet flavor, these cookies are simple to prepare and come together in just a few easy steps.

4. Beautiful Presentation

The glaze and garnishes make these cookies a stunning addition to any dessert spread or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

5. Versatile for Occasions

These cookies are perfect for spring or summer gatherings, bridal showers, or even as a luxurious snack for yourself!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salted butter (at cool room temperature)
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon zest
• Dried culinary lavender buds
• Large egg (at room temperature)

For the Glaze:

• Powdered sugar (sifted)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lavender extract (optional)
• Purple food coloring (optional)
• Lavender buds (for garnish, optional)
• Lemon zest (for garnish, optional)

Variations

• Lavender Substitute: If you prefer, you can replace lavender with other edible flowers like chamomile or rose petals for a different floral flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: You can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil to make these cookies dairy-free.
• Glaze Flavor: For a variation in the glaze, try adding orange zest instead of lemon for a citrus twist or vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add the lemon zest and dried lavender, then mix until well incorporated. Beat in the egg until fully combined.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

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

Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or simply slice into rounds.

Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies bake, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add the lavender extract (if using) and food coloring, then mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Glaze the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each cookie. Garnish with additional lavender buds or lemon zest, if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Let the glaze set for about 15–20 minutes before serving. Enjoy the cookies with tea or coffee, or gift them to a loved one.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensuring they hold their shape.
• Use Culinary Lavender: Make sure you’re using culinary lavender, which is safe for consumption. Regular lavender from the garden may contain pesticides or other chemicals.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies bake quickly, so keep a close eye on them. They should be soft in the center and lightly golden on the edges.
• Customize the Glaze: Adjust the glaze to your liking by adding more or less lemon juice. You can also make it thicker by adding more powdered sugar.

How to Serve

Lemon Lavender Cookies make an excellent treat for tea parties, brunches, or any special occasion. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a refreshing iced tea. For a lovely presentation, arrange the cookies on a serving platter and garnish with extra lemon zest or edible flowers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days. They will stay soft and fresh, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cookies, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or until just warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

2. What type of lavender should I use?

Use culinary-grade lavender, which is specifically grown for cooking and baking, rather than decorative lavender.

3. Can I make these cookies without the glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze for a simpler cookie, or dust them with powdered sugar instead.

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

The cookies should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

5. Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

6. Can I add other flavors to the cookies?

You can add other citrus zest, like orange or lime, or spices like cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.

7. What other edible flowers can I use in these cookies?

You can use other edible flowers like chamomile, rose petals, or violets, all of which would pair nicely with the lemon flavor.

8. Can I make the cookies larger or smaller?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the cookies, but be mindful that the baking time will vary depending on the size.

9. Can I substitute the cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as a substitute.

10. How do I make the glaze thicker?

If the glaze is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a fragrant and delicious treat that combine the refreshing citrus of lemon with the subtle floral taste of lavender. Whether you’re looking for a special dessert for a gathering or just want to enjoy something unique, these cookies offer the perfect balance of flavors. With their soft texture and delicate glaze, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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