Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

These delicious Lemon Lavender Cookies are perfect for any occasion, delighting your taste buds with a bright, citrusy-floral flavor and a soft, buttery texture. The sweet lemon lavender glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that makes these cookies stand out. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or need a delightful treat for everyday enjoyment, this recipe is quick to follow and requires minimal ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh cookies in no time.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of lemon and lavender offers a delightful twist on classic cookies.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for gatherings, gifts, or just a cozy night in.
• No Chilling Required: You can bake right away without waiting for the dough to chill.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with extra garnishes like lemon zest or lavender buds for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking, gather your tools and set up your workspace to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Electric Mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for light and fluffy cookies.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing together.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking to the baking sheets, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These delightful lemon lavender cookies feature a bright, citrusy-floral taste and a soft, buttery texture, topped with a sweet lemon lavender glaze. The recipe comes together quick, calls for simple ingredients, and doesn’t require chilling.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups / 270 g / 9.5 oz all-purpose flour, spoon and leveled
• 2 tbsp / 10 g / 0.6 oz cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 2 sticks / 225 g / 8 oz salted butter, at cool room temperature
• 3/4 cup / 150 g / 5.3 oz granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 3 medium lemons)
• 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
• 1 large egg, at a cool room temperature

Glaze Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups / 180 g / 6.3 oz powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 to 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp lavender extract (optional)
• 3 to 4 drops of purple food coloring
• lavender buds, to garnish, if desired
• lemon zest, to garnish, if desired

How to Make Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F / 180°C / gas mark 4. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder until well mixed.
2. Set aside the mixture for later use.

Step 3: Beat Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or an electric mixer) to cream together the butter, sugar, lemon zest, and dried lavender on medium speed.
2. Beat until light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Add Egg

Mix in one large egg until fully combined into the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add the flour mixture.
2. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix—the dough will seem slightly dry.

Step 6: Scoop Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop:
1. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
2. Space each ball about two inches apart.

Step 7: Flatten Cookies

Gently flatten each ball with your palms until they are about one-third inch thick.

Step 8: Bake

Place one cookie sheet in the oven:
1. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes.
2. The cookies are done when their centers are just set and edges appear slightly golden.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Mix Glaze

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and optional lavender extract until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency with more lemon juice if needed; tint with purple food coloring as desired.

Step 11: Decorate Cookies

Spoon glaze over each cooled cookie:
1. If desired, sprinkle with lavender buds or additional lemon zest.
2. Allow icing to set for about thirty minutes before serving.

Step 12: Store Cookies

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days; separate layers with wax paper if stacking.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Lavender Cookies!

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

These lemon lavender cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their fragrant floral notes and zesty flavor make them perfect for different occasions.

With Tea or Coffee

• Pair with your favorite herbal tea for a refreshing afternoon break.
• Enjoy alongside a rich coffee to balance the lightness of the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter with fresh fruits like berries for a colorful dessert display.
• Add some chocolate truffles or nuts to complement the flavors.

Gift Packaging

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Include a handwritten note with serving suggestions to enhance the gift experience.

During Special Occasions

• Serve at gatherings such as bridal showers, baby showers, or birthday parties for a unique twist on traditional cookies.
• Highlight their unique flavor by placing them on a themed dessert table.

How to Perfect Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

To create the best lemon lavender cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemons and high-quality culinary lavender to enhance the flavor profile.
• Measure Accurately: Ensure precise measurements using a kitchen scale for consistent results in texture and taste.
• Room Temperature Butter: Allow butter to soften at room temperature for easier creaming and better incorporation of ingredients.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to prevent tough cookies.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; remove cookies when edges are slightly golden for optimal softness.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Don’t hesitate to try different garnishes like edible flowers or citrus slices for added appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

These lemon lavender cookies pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the floral notes of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese provide a creamy contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries to create a satisfying treat that balances sweetness and tanginess.
4. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the cookie’s delicate flavors.
5. Ice Cream: Citrus-flavored ice creams like lemon sorbet add a refreshing kick alongside these sweet bites.
6. Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy nuts provide texture and additional sweetness that works well with lemon lavender flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking lemon lavender cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to avoid them.

• Incorrectly measuring flour – Using too much or too little flour can alter the cookie’s texture. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Allow your butter and egg to sit at room temperature before starting.
• Not properly creaming the butter and sugar – Failing to achieve a light and fluffy mixture can result in dense cookies. Beat the mixture until it’s well-aerated.
• Overbaking the cookies – Cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed. Keep an eye on them during baking.
• Ignoring glaze consistency – A glaze that is too thick or too runny won’t adhere well to the cookies. Aim for a thick yet pourable glaze for even coating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store lemon lavender cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid and warm for a few minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making lemon lavender cookies that may help you succeed with this delightful recipe.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh lavender, but make sure it’s culinary grade and adjust the amount since fresh herbs are more potent.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for slightly golden edges while keeping a soft center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, white chocolate chips, or even switch out lemon zest for orange zest for different flavors.

What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

The glaze is great topped with additional lemon zest or lavender buds. Experiment with colors and garnishes!

How long will these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last about 4 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These lemon lavender cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their unique flavor profile makes them perfect for any occasion, from tea parties to casual snacks. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, ensuring everyone enjoys this delightful treat!