Lavender shortbread cookies are the epitome of elegance and simplicity. With their delicate floral notes and buttery texture, these cookies make a perfect treat for tea time, holiday gatherings, or simply whenever you crave a moment of indulgence. In this post, I’ll guide you through creating these aromatic delights that will surely become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.
Before we dive into the details, make sure to subscribe to receive more delightful recipes straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love These Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These lavender shortbread cookies are a beautiful blend of buttery richness and a hint of floral fragrance. Each bite is a balance of soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness with a lingering sweetness that’s anything but overpowering. Here’s why these cookies will become your new favorite:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The lavender adds a subtle floral hint that elevates the buttery goodness of traditional shortbread.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as-is, drizzle them with chocolate, or pair them with your favorite fruit preserves.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute guests or a cozy afternoon baking session.
What Do Lavender Shortbread Cookies Taste Like?
Imagine a classic buttery shortbread cookie, but with a twist. The delicate lavender brings an aromatic, slightly sweet floral note that perfectly complements the cookie’s rich, buttery texture. They’re fragrant, crisp, and just melt in your mouth—a truly delightful treat!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
- Customizable: Add a citrus zest, dip in chocolate, or even sprinkle with sugar for extra texture.
- Long Shelf Life: These cookies store well, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying over time.
Ingredients for Lavender Shortbread Cookies
To make about 24 cookies, you will need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons culinary lavender buds, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (round or any shape you prefer)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Lemon Zest: For a hint of citrus, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough.
- Orange Blossom Water: Swap vanilla extract for orange blossom water for a more complex floral flavor.
- Dried Rosemary: Mix in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped dried rosemary for a unique herbal twist.
How to Make Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and finely chopped lavender buds. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cookie!
- Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a flat disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and enhances the cookie’s flavor.
- Roll Out and Cut: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to Serve with Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea—particularly Earl Grey or chamomile. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit, a dollop of lemon curd, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Making the Perfect Shortbread Cookies
- Use Culinary Lavender: Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender, as other types can taste bitter or soapy.
- Don’t Overmix: To achieve a tender, crumbly texture, mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut without sticking.
Storage Instructions
Store the lavender shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
General Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Lavender?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but you’ll need to use half the amount called for in the recipe, as fresh lavender is more potent. Make sure to chop it finely and use only the buds.
How Do I Know When the Cookies Are Done?
The cookies are done when the edges just start to turn golden. The centers should still be pale. Overbaking can result in a tougher texture.
Can I Add Icing or Glaze?
Absolutely! A light drizzle of lemon glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a delightful touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
Lavender shortbread cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that brings a touch of sophistication to any occasion. With their buttery texture and delicate floral aroma, they’re sure to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re easy to make, store well, and can be customized with your favorite flavors. Give them a try, and let these cookies become a new favorite in your home!
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love these other floral-inspired treats:
- Rose Water Sugar Cookies: Delicately scented sugar cookies with a hint of rose.
- Lemon Lavender Scones: A buttery, crumbly scone infused with lavender and zesty lemon.
- Earl Grey Tea Cakes: Soft, tender cakes with the fragrant taste of Earl Grey tea.
Share Your Creations!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see how your lavender shortbread cookies turn out! Share your photos on Pinterest and tag me. Don’t forget to leave a review in the comments below!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Ready to bake? Let’s get those ovens preheated and enjoy the delightful fragrance of lavender cookies wafting through your home!
