Introduction
Lavender Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Icing offer a sublime twist on a classic cookie, bringing forth the enchanting taste of lavender melded with the richness of butter. These shortbread cookies are a true testament to how a simple combination of ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. Ideal for tea parties, or as a part of afternoon tea, these cookies not only elevate your baking game but also introduce a unique floral experience to your taste buds. The vanilla icing further enhances this delightful treat with its sweet, creamy finish. Whether part of your dessert table or simply enjoyed with a cup of your favorite tea, these cookies promise satisfaction with every bite.
Detailed Ingredients
To craft these cookies, a selection of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients is required. Here is a breakdown of what you’ll need:
– Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened. The butter serves as the base, giving these cookies their rich, creamy texture.
– Powdered Sugar: 3/4 cup for the cookies and an extra 1 cup for the icing. Powdered sugar ensures a smooth texture for both the batter and the icing.
– Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for the cookies and an additional 1/2 teaspoon for the icing. Vanilla adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the lavender beautifully.
– All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups. This provides structure and stability to the cookies, allowing them to hold their shape.
– Dried Culinary Lavender: 2 tablespoons. This is the star ingredient offering a fragrant floral note.
– Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. A pinch of salt balances the flavors, highlighting the sweetness and buttery richness.
– Milk: 2-3 tablespoons for the icing. This is used to achieve the desired consistency for drizzling or spreading over the cookies.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
– Yield: 24 cookies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Crafting Lavender Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Icing is a delightful endeavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
1. Begin by preparing the butter. Ensure the unsalted butter is softened; leave it at room temperature if necessary. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy and smooth, using an electric mixer for best results.
2. Gradually add the 3/4 cup of powdered sugar to the creamed butter. Continue beating the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. Add in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, dried culinary lavender, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the butter and sugar mix, ensuring you mix well until a dough begins to form.
4. Once the dough is well combined, divide it in half. Shape each half into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent any air from drying out the dough.
5. Place the wrapped dough logs in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours. This chilling period is crucial for firming up the dough, making it easier to slice later.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
7. After the chilling period, remove the dough from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
8. Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about an inch apart to allow for slight expansion during baking.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Since ovens may vary, keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
10. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Allow them to rest on the baking sheet for a minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. For the vanilla icing, whisk together the 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, adjusting the milk quantity to achieve your desired icing thickness.
12. Once the cookies have fully cooled, drizzle the vanilla icing over the top, or spread it using a knife or spatula. Allow the icing to set before serving.
Notes
– Ensure the butter is well softened before starting to mix; this aids in achieving the creamy texture of the dough.
– When slicing the dough, ensure the knife is sharp to get clean, even slices.
– Let the cookies set completely once you’ve drizzled or spread the icing, as this will ensure they stay neat when served.
Cooking Techniques
– Beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is a crucial step to ensure a soft texture in the final cookie.
– Chilling the dough is essential not only to firm it up but also to deepen the flavors as it rests.
– Uniform slicing will ensure even baking. Rotating the baking trays halfway through the cooking process can also help achieve consistent baking results.
FAQ
Why use dried culinary lavender? Culinary lavender is specially grown for cooking, ensuring it’s safe and delivers the best flavor without any bitterness or unwanted chemicals.
Can I substitute fresh lavender? Fresh lavender has more moisture and a slightly different flavor profile. If using fresh, reduce the amount by about half and ensure it’s finely chopped.
How do I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Lavender Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Icing are more than just a treat; they are an experience. The floral notes of lavender play beautifully with the buttery base and sweet vanilla icing, offering a cookie that is both elegant and delicious. They are perfect for many occasions, from a sophisticated tea party to an indulgent everyday snack. Their simple yet chic nature makes them an instant favorite for anyone looking to explore unique flavors in their baking.
More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations
For those who love experimenting, these cookies pair beautifully with other unique flavors. Consider trying variations such as adding a hint of lemon zest to the cookie dough for a citrusy flair or substituting half the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste. Pair these cookies with a lavender-infused tea or a vanilla café latte to create a cohesive theme.
For more adventurous takes, explore the notion of herb-infused desserts by experimenting with rosemary shortbread cookies or a thyme and honey cake. The world of flavors is vast, and these lavender shortbread cookies are just one delightful path to explore.
