The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen has a magical way of bringing everyone together, doesn’t it? If you’re searching for a delightful treat that marries elegance with a touch of floral flair, look no further than my Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. This recipe not only showcases a buttery, crumbly texture but also offers the bright zing of fresh lemon zest paired with the sophisticated essence of dried culinary lavender. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to elevate your everyday baking routine, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that exude charm. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them the perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with these delectable delights?
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Delightful Flavor Fusion: The zesty lemon pairs beautifully with the subtle floral note of lavender, creating a taste that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Simplicity in Preparation: The recipe is designed for bakers of all levels, featuring straightforward steps that make it easy to create impressive cookies.
Ideal for Every Occasion: Perfect for tea parties, garden events, or as elegant gifts, these cookies will surely leave a lasting impression.
Elevate Your Baking: Every bite showcases buttery tenderness and a melting crumble, making them a sophisticated alternative to everyday treats.
Versatile Variations: Whether you want to use different edible flowers or add nuts for texture, the recipe allows for delightful customizations.
Indulge in these Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies and transform every gathering into a memorable experience. If you love lemon, check out my Lemon Blueberry Lasagna for another zesty delight!
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
• Whip up a batch of these delightful cookies with this handy ingredient list!
For the Cookie Dough
- Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base for these Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies; use unsalted for better control of salt.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; can substitute with powdered sugar for a finer texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies; for gluten-free options, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Fresh Lemon Zest – Brings vibrant citrus flavor; use fresh juice for an extra tang if desired.
- Dried Culinary Lavender – Infuses a unique floral note; ensure it’s labeled as culinary for safety in consumption.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together; a flax egg can be used for a vegan alternative.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for a smooth icing; sugar-free alternatives can be used for a healthier option.
- Milk or Cream – Creates a silky icing texture; non-dairy milk makes for a great vegan substitute.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a baking adventure that will elevate your dessert game!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Prep Dough
Begin by creaming together room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This process helps to incorporate air and creates a tender, buttery base for your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
Step 2: Mix in Ingredients
Next, gently add all-purpose flour, fresh lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender into the bowl. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just combined—avoid overmixing, as this will ensure your cookies remain light and crumbly. Finally, fold in the egg until the dough is cohesive and smooth.
Step 3: Chill
Once mixed, form the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling will firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes later, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into your desired shapes and carefully place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook; the perfect cookies will be slightly firm to the touch but will still maintain a tender center.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial since the cookies need to be completely cool before icing.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and a splash of milk or cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and drizzle-able. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk for a thinner glaze for your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
Step 8: Glaze Cookies
Finally, dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the icing or use a spoon to drizzle it over the cookies. For an elegant touch, sprinkle a few dried lavender buds on top before the icing sets. Allow the glaze to harden completely before stacking or serving, ensuring your beautiful cookies maintain their charming appearance.
What to Serve with Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Experience a sweet symphony of flavors by pairing these delightful treats with complementary dishes or drinks that elevate your dessert experience.
- Earl Grey Tea: The citrus and floral notes in Earl Grey harmonize beautifully with the cookies, creating a soothing afternoon tea pairing.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of tartness that complements the cookies’ sweetness.
These vibrant, fresh flavors will brighten up your dessert table, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
- Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade echoes the lemon zest in the cookies, making for a refreshing duo during warm days.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a creamy texture, enriching the buttery notes of the cookies.
Whipped cream served alongside can create an indulgent experience that keeps everyone coming back for more!
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The rich, dark chocolate adds a decadent twist, perfectly balancing the cookies’ lightness while pleasing chocolate lovers.
- Lavender Infused Milk: For a consistent theme, serve your cookies with warm or chilled lavender milk, echoing the cookie’s flavors in each sip.
Each pairing not only enhances the delightful experience of the Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies but also turns your gathering into a memorable occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after mixing and refrigerate. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and the dough is easy to roll out when you’re ready to bake. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature before icing. To maintain their delightful texture, only glaze just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, elegant cookies with minimal effort on the day of your event!
Expert Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
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Chill Dough: Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes; this helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading during baking.
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Measure Flour Accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure for the best texture in your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
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Cooling Time: Ensure cookies are completely cooled before icing. If they’re warm, the glaze may melt and not set properly, ruining the elegant finish.
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Use Culinary Lavender: Only use lavender labeled as culinary to avoid ingesting non-food safe products. This guarantees a delightful flavor without health risks.
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Store Properly: For the best freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container. Adding parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking.
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these cookies truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious treat. Keep the textures light and crumbly with the right blend!
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Citrus Twist: Replace fresh lemon zest with orange or lime for a refreshing citrus alternative. The result is a beautiful burst of flavor that will awaken your taste buds.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or almonds to the dough for an added crunch and richness in every bite. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the buttery cookie base.
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Decadent Drizzle: Enhance the icing with a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract for a deeper flavor profile. Just a little twist takes these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence!
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Herbal Infusion: Swap the dried culinary lavender for other edible flowers like chamomile or rose petals for a unique floral taste. Each bite will tell its own story and impress your guests.
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Chewy Cookies: For a denser cookie, incorporate a tablespoon of cornstarch into the flour mix. This gives a delightful chewy texture alongside the traditional crumble.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon for a warm spice that tantalizes your palate. This unexpected twist can create a delightful fall-inspired cookie!
Don’t forget, if you’re intrigued by more lemon-themed delights, check out my recipes for Lemon Cake Mix or Lemon Verbena Tea to keep the flavors fresh and exciting.
Storage Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store your iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
- Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh for several weeks, place the container in the fridge. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze these Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To restore a bit of that fresh-baked softness, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes, just until warmed through.
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right lavender for these cookies?
Absolutely! Ensure you’re using culinary lavender, which is specifically labeled for safe consumption. Avoid any lavender meant for decorative uses, as it may contain chemicals or additives that aren’t food-safe. When selecting, look for buds that are vibrant in color and aromatic, a good indicator of quality.
What is the best way to store Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
For the best freshness, store your iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To extend their lifespan, pop them in the fridge where they can last for several weeks. Just remember to let them warm to room temperature before enjoying them for optimal texture!
How can I freeze Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
Very! To freeze your baked cookies, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before serving!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies have spread excessively, it’s often due to the dough being too warm or not enough flour. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling helps immensely, and make sure to accurately measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method. For future baking, a bit of extra flour can help maintain the right texture.
Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies?
When baking, it’s important to consider potential allergens. This recipe features common ingredients like butter, eggs, and flour which may not be suitable for everyone. For those with dairy allergies or following a vegan diet, you can use non-dairy milk and a flax egg instead of the regular egg. Always check labels for allergens and consult with guests if serving at gatherings!
How can I adjust the recipe for different climates or altitudes?
Absolutely, high-altitude baking can be a bit tricky! At higher elevations, it’s often necessary to slightly decrease sugar and increase flour. You may also want to raise the baking temperature by 15-25°F to help cookies set more quickly. As an expert tip, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of additional flour for every extra inch of elevation over 3,000 feet. This helps maintain the delicate structure of your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies!
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies for a Blissful Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add all-purpose flour, fresh lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the egg until the dough is cohesive and smooth.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to ¼ inch thick; cut into desired shapes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are slightly golden brown.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Combine powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and milk or cream in a bowl, whisk until smooth.
- Dip cooled cookies into the icing or drizzle over them; sprinkle with dried lavender buds before icing sets.
