Lemon Lavender Cookies are a fragrant, zesty treat with a unique floral twist. The combination of tangy lemon and aromatic lavender creates a sophisticated cookie that’s perfect for everything from afternoon tea to special celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I adore how these cookies strike the perfect balance between citrusy brightness and the gentle floral notes of lavender. They’re easy to make, yet they feel luxurious and elegant. With simple ingredients and an optional powdered sugar coating, they look and taste like a bakery-level indulgence.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 egg
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling, optional)
Directions
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Flavors:
Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and dried lavender buds until well combined.
Incorporate the Egg:
Beat in the egg until fully blended.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Shape the Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll chilled dough into tablespoon-sized balls and, if desired, roll in powdered sugar.
Bake:
Place dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are golden but centers are soft.
Cool and Serve:
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Variations
Intense Lavender Flavor: Steep lavender buds in the lemon juice for a few minutes before adding to the mixture.
Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over cooled cookies for a decorative and flavorful touch.
Orange Twist: Swap lemon zest and juice for orange zest and juice for a different citrus profile.
Storage/Reheating
I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their life, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container; they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
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FAQs
How can I ensure the lavender flavor isn’t overpowering?
I recommend sticking to the specified amount of lavender buds. For a subtler flavor, you can chop them finely or steep them in the lemon juice before using.
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, but use it sparingly as fresh lavender has a more intense flavor. Make sure it’s culinary-grade.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
I like to use a microplane grater for fine, even zest. Be careful not to include the bitter white pith.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar?
No, that’s optional. It adds a decorative and slightly sweeter finish but isn’t necessary for the flavor.
Conclusion
These Lemon Lavender Cookies are a delightful blend of zesty citrus and floral elegance. Whether you’re treating yourself or baking for a special occasion, they’re sure to impress with their unique flavor and light, refreshing taste. I hope you’ll enjoy baking and sharing these beautiful cookies as much as I do.
📖 Recipe:
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Lemon Lavender Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Lavender Cookies are a delightful fusion of tangy citrus and floral lavender, creating a fragrant and sophisticated treat perfect for tea parties, special occasions, or simply indulging in a luxurious snack.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
1 large egg
Powdered sugar (optional, for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Flavors: Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lavender buds until well combined.
- Incorporate Egg: Add the egg and beat until fully blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
- Chill Dough: Cover dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls and optionally roll in powdered sugar.
- Bake: Place dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden and centers are soft.
- Cool and Serve: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
For a stronger lavender flavor, steep the lavender in lemon juice for a few minutes.
Swap lemon juice and zest with orange for a citrus variation.
Lemon glaze can be added for extra sweetness and decoration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
