Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the refreshing zest of lemon with the floral notes of lavender, you’ve come to the right place! These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are not just cookies but a little bite of sunshine and serenity. They are perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy afternoon tea, a family gathering, or simply to brighten up a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen.

What I love most about these cookies is how easy they are to make. Plus, the buttery goodness paired with lemon and lavender creates an unforgettable flavor experience that will surely impress your friends and family. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together quickly. Perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic lavender makes every bite feel like springtime.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for gatherings or as sweet gifts. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and slice it whenever you’re ready to bake. Enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore these treats, making them ideal for family baking sessions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies is super simple with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Gather these items from your pantry, and let’s create something special!

For the Cookies

• 14 Tbsp butter (2 sticks minus 2 Tbsp), softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (a microplane is the best tool for this)
• 1 1/2 cups plus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 2-4 Tbsp dried lavender flowers
• pinch salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or textures. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add Nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch and depth to the cookies.
• Infuse More Citrus: Swap out some of the lemon juice for orange juice or add orange zest for an extra citrus kick.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an indulgent twist.
• Herbal Twist: Try incorporating other herbs like rosemary or thyme alongside the lavender for unique flavor combinations.

How to Make Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely light texture we all adore.

Step 2: Mix in Egg Yolk and Flavors

Next, add in the egg yolk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until everything is well combined. The addition of lemon juice and zest not only enhances flavor but also helps in achieving that soft cookie texture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in your dry ingredients: flour, arrowroot powder (or cornstarch), dried lavender flowers, and salt. Stir gently until the dough starts to come together; you want everything mixed without overworking it.

Step 4: Shape Your Dough

Once your dough is combined, take it out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. This will make slicing easier later on. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper—twisting the ends helps keep everything secure while chilling.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Pop your wrapped dough into the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up. While waiting, you can preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Chilling solidifies the fats in your dough which leads to perfectly shaped cookies after baking.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

When ready to bake, slice your chilled log into 1/4 inch rounds. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about an inch apart—they don’t spread much but need room to breathe! Bake them for 25-30 minutes until just golden at the edges.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They might seem soft at first but will firm up beautifully as they cool down.

And there you have it! A delightful batch of Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies that’s sure to bring joy with every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, but a few handy tips can help you achieve cookie perfection!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends better with sugar, creating a light and airy texture that will make your cookies melt in your mouth.

• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method – spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.

• Choose culinary lavender: Make sure to use edible lavender that’s meant for baking; this ensures you’re using safe and flavorful ingredients.

• Chill the dough thoroughly: Chilling the dough helps it firm up, which prevents spreading during baking and results in perfectly shaped cookies.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so check your cookies a couple of minutes before the recommended time. You want them to be just barely golden at the edges for that perfect soft center!

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Serving these cookies can be as creative as your heart desires! Whether you’re hosting a tea party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some ideas to showcase these delightful treats.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a beautiful touch and sweetness that complements the lemon flavor without overpowering it.

• Lemon zest curls: Thin curls of lemon zest can enhance the visual appeal and intensify the fresh aroma of lemon in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Herbal tea: Pair these cookies with a soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, to bring out their floral notes while providing a cozy experience.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries and citrus fruits brightens up the dessert table while balancing the richness of the cookies.

• Vanilla ice cream: For a delightful twist, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the buttery shortbread.

• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with fresh fruits and granola for a crunchy contrast that makes for an elegant dessert option when serving guests.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies! They’re sure to bring smiles and warmth to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors anytime. You can easily make a batch ahead of time, and they store wonderfully!

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can last up to one week, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.
• If you prefer them chilled, store them in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap individual cookies or stacks of cookies tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy the buttery goodness as if they were freshly baked!

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies:

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried for Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

Using fresh lavender is possible, but it has a stronger flavor. If you choose to use it, reduce the amount by half compared to dried lavender.

How do I know when my Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are done?

The edges should just start to turn golden while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them after the 25-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

What is the texture of Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

These cookies have a tender, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, beautifully complemented by the lemon and floral notes.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with lime or orange zest and juice for a different twist while keeping the same buttery base.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies as much as I do! Their unique blend of flavors truly makes them special—perfect for any occasion or just a sweet treat at home. Enjoy every crumb and feel free to share your baking adventures. Happy baking!