Lemon Lavender Cookies

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a captivating dessert that combines fragrant notes of citrus with the delicate aroma of lavender. The bright flavor of lemon pairs harmoniously with the subtle floral elements, creating a cookie that is both refreshing and delightful. With a soft and slightly chewy texture, these cookies become an unforgettable treat perfect for various occasions, such as tea parties, summer gatherings, or as a quick and elegant dessert for any day. Their unique flavor makes them a great choice for those who wish to impress friends and family with something different yet approachable.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Lemon Lavender Cookies

Complete Ingredients List

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 sticks salted butter, at cool room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
• 1 large egg, at cool room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp lavender extract (optional)
• 3 to 4 drops of purple food coloring
• Lavender buds, to garnish
• Lemon zest, to garnish

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several substitutions you can make to accommodate common allergens or dietary needs.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has a binding agent like xanthan gum.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of salted butter.
• Sugar-Free: Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia for a sugar-free option, keeping in mind that texture may vary.
• Flavor Variations: If you’d like to experiment, consider adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or replacing lavender with another dried herb like rosemary or mint for a unique twist on the traditional flavor profile.

How to Make Lemon Lavender Cookies

Creating Lemon Lavender Cookies is a straightforward process that yields scrumptious results! Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and do not stick to the sheets.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. This dry mixture will provide the right structure and texture for your cookies. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature salted butter, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender buds. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the large egg to the butter mixture and mix until well combined. This will introduce richness and moisture to your cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the reserved dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. It’s normal for the dough to feel slightly dry, but it should hold together when pressed.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Using a small cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow for proper spreading during baking.

Step 7: Flatten the Dough

Gently flatten each ball with your palms until they reach about 1/3 inch thick. This will help them bake evenly and create the desirable texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, which could lead to dry cookies. Once baked, cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies cool, you can make the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lavender extract until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency. If desired, add a few drops of purple food coloring to enhance the visual appeal.

Step 10: Glaze the Cookies

Spoon the glaze over each cooled cookie and sprinkle with additional lavender buds and lemon zest, if desired. Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes before serving to achieve that beautiful finish.

Step 11: Store Properly

Once set, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Just make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Lavender Cookies

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Cookies

These delightful cookies can be served at room temperature, making them perfect for a casual afternoon snack or a dessert at special occasions. When serving, consider arranging them on a beautiful platter, garnishing with additional fresh lemon slices or sprigs of lavender to enhance their visual appeal.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Lemon Lavender Cookies pair wonderfully with an array of beverages. Consider enjoying them with a refreshing glass of iced tea, a warm cup of herbal tea, or even a French press coffee. They can also be served alongside a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche for a rich contrast. For added flavor, drizzling a bit of honey over the cookies can enhance their sweetness and pretend they’re straight out of a garden.

Storing & Preserving Lemon Lavender Cookies

Best Storage Methods

For optimal freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for up to four days when stored correctly, so best to enjoy them within that time frame. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them for future enjoyment.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To freeze Lemon Lavender Cookies, allow them to cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight plastic freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. If you prefer warm cookies, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Lavender Cookies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Baking can sometimes be tricky, and certain mistakes can affect the outcome of your Lemon Lavender Cookies. Some common pitfalls include:

• Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much after adding in the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Oven Temperature: Always make sure your oven is accurately preheated; use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Incorrect Measurements: Baking is a science, so make sure you measure ingredients accurately. Spoon and level flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid packing it down.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature to ensure better mixing and emulsifying, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Chill the Dough: If you find that the dough is too soft to shape or scoop, consider chilling it for 30 minutes. This can also help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Fun Variations of Lemon Lavender Cookies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many variations you can try that can take these cookies to new heights. For instance:

• Add nuts: Chopped pistachios or pecans can add an exciting crunch.
• Citrus Variants: Mix in some orange zest or lemon balm for an extra citrus kick.
• Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, consider swirling in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cookies.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

You can adapt these cookies based on specific dietary needs:

• Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter in place of regular butter.
• Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and erythritol for sweetness.

FAQs

What If My Lemon Lavender Cookies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

Troubleshooting can be invaluable if your cookies don’t come out as expected. If they’re too dry, it might be due to overmixing or not enough fat. Consider adding a little more butter to your dough next time or checking your oven temperature.

If they don’t spread enough, make sure you’re flattening the cookie dough balls before baking, and check that your baking powder isn’t expired—leavening agents lose potency over time.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days, or freeze it for later use. When ready to bake, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before proceeding with the baking instructions.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you’re missing lemon zest or lavender, you can try experimenting with other herbs or zests, like lime or grapefruit zest, respectively. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change, but creativity in the kitchen often leads to delightful surprises!

Baking Lemon Lavender Cookies not only brings a unique flavor to the table but also creates an experience filled with joy, freshness, and creativity. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, the delicious combination of lemon and lavender is sure to be a hit. Happy baking!

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