Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of spring, you’ve come to the right place! These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a personal favorite of mine. They’re buttery, lemony, and just sweet enough to brighten your day. The floral notes of lavender add a unique twist that makes these cookies stand out, whether you’re enjoying them with tea or sharing them at a family gathering. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights when you need a little something special.

These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma while they bake. They are perfect for spring parties, cozy get-togethers, or just because you deserve a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love the light lemon flavor combined with fragrant lavender.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a fancy tea party, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for future baking.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The blend of lemon and lavender is refreshing and will leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating some delicious memories!

For the Cookies

• 14 Tbsp butter (2 sticks minus 2 Tbsp), softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (a microplane is the best tool for this)
• 1 1/2 cups plus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 2-4 Tbsp dried lavender flowers
• pinch salt

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up and make it your own. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Nuts: Try incorporating chopped almonds or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Switch Up the Citrus: If lemon isn’t your favorite, orange zest can give these cookies a delightful twist.
• Make Them Iced: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice would add a lovely finish to each cookie.
• Infuse with Herbs: Consider using other herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected flavor pairing.

How to Make Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates air pockets in the dough that help keep your cookies tender.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolk and Flavorings

Next, add in the egg yolk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until everything is well combined. The egg yolk helps bind the ingredients together while adding richness. The fresh lemon juice and zest will bring vibrant flavor to each bite!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the flour, arrowroot powder (or cornstarch), dried lavender flowers, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until it starts to hold together into a dough. This step ensures that your cookies have that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Take the dough out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper, twisting the ends to secure it. This makes slicing easier later on!

Step 5: Chill Until Firm

Place your wrapped dough log in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes until firm. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking so that your cookies maintain their shape.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Slice

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Slice the chilled log into 1/4 inch rounds and lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet about an inch apart.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake those beauties for about 25-30 minutes! Keep an eye on them after 25 minutes; they should be golden around the edges while still soft in the center.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy!

Let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. As they cool down, they will firm up perfectly! Now grab a cup of tea or coffee because these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh lavender: Fresh lavender provides a more vibrant flavor compared to dried. If you can find it, use it in your cookies for an aromatic boost.
• Chill the dough thoroughly: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to slice but also helps the cookies retain their shape during baking. This is key for those perfect little rounds!
• Keep an eye on baking time: Each oven is different, so start checking your cookies at the 25-minute mark. You want them to be just set and barely golden around the edges for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Experiment with lemon zest: Don’t be afraid to adjust the lemon zest to your taste! A bit more can enhance the citrus flavor and brighten the overall cookie experience.
• Store properly for freshness: To keep your cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious and buttery for days!

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are not just tasty; they also make a charming addition to any gathering or afternoon tea. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making these cookies look as delightful as they taste.
• Pair with lemon slices: Fresh lemon slices on the side not only complement the flavors but also add a pop of color to your presentation.

Side Dishes

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or lemon verbena, pairs wonderfully with these cookies and enhances their fragrant notes.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits will provide a light contrast to the buttery richness of the cookies.
• Cheese platter: Consider serving these cookies alongside a selection of mild cheeses. The creaminess balances out the sweetness beautifully.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with berries and granola can make for a delightful dessert spread that complements your cookies nicely.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these lovely Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to properly keep your cookies fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They’ll stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cookies before baking or after they’ve cooled.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving, as it may make them chewy instead of crisp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.

Can I use fresh lavender in Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

Fresh lavender can be used but should be finely chopped. Use about three times the amount compared to dried lavender, as fresh herbs have a milder flavor.

How do I achieve the best flavor in my Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

For the best flavor, use high-quality dried lavender and freshly grated lemon zest. This will enhance the citrusy notes and provide a more aromatic experience.

Can I substitute other flavors in this shortbread recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of lavender, consider substituting it with other herbs like rosemary or thyme or try adding different citrus zests such as orange.

How do I know when my Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are done baking?

Watch for the edges to turn golden brown while keeping the centers soft. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

What’s a good way to serve Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee! Consider serving them at a brunch or afternoon tea for an elegant touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies! Their buttery texture combined with the refreshing notes of lemon and soothing lavender makes them truly special. Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure they’ll bring a little sunshine into your day. Happy baking!