When you think of cookies, you might envision classic chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin, but hold onto your baking mitts because Lavender Shortbread Cookies are here to sweep you off your feet. Imagine buttery, crumbly bites infused with the delicate floral notes of lavender, melting in your mouth like a gentle summer breeze. salted honey cookies The aroma wafts through your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in a quaint café in Provence.
Now, picture this: you’re at a delightful tea party, surrounded by friends and laughter. As the sunlight streams through the window, someone presents a plate of these lavender-infused delights. You take a bite, and suddenly it feels like you’ve been transported to an English garden filled with blooming lavender fields. Perfect for any occasion—from afternoon teas to dessert tables at weddings these cookies are sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Lavender Shortbread Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect even for novice bakers.
- The unique floral flavor creates an unforgettable taste experience that will keep everyone guessing the secret ingredient.
- Their beautiful lavender hue adds visual appeal, making them ideal for special occasions or as thoughtful gifts.
- Not only do they pair well with tea or coffee, but they can also be dressed up with icing or served alongside fresh fruit.
Ingredients for Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sifted flour helps create tender cookies.
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies; consider using powdered sugar for extra tenderness.
- Dried Culinary Lavender: Make sure it’s food-grade; it infuses delightful floral notes into the cookies.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the flavor profile of the shortbread.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick like an unwanted guest at a party.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dried culinary lavender, and salt until well combined. This step ensures that every cookie gets an even distribution of those lovely floral notes.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and sugar together until light and fluffy about 3-5 minutes should do it. Imagine it’s like giving your butter a little spa day!
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Stir in the vanilla extract next. This is where things start smelling heavenly! Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until everything is just combined; over-mixing will lead to tough cookies no one wants that.
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie because they’ll spread a bit while baking. You can gently press them down with your fingers for that classic shortbread look.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake those beauties for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely if you can resist snacking on them right away!
Serve these delightful Lavender Shortbread Cookies with your favorite tea or coffee for a charming treat that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day!
You Must Know
- These delightful Lavender Shortbread Cookies are not only a treat for the tastebuds but also a feast for the eyes.
- Their delicate floral notes and buttery crunch make them an irresistible addition to any tea party or cozy afternoon snack.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy, then gradually mix in the flour and dried lavender. Chill the dough before rolling it out for consistent baking results. Finally, bake until lightly golden for the perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lavender for other herbs like rosemary or thyme if you’re feeling adventurous. raspberry rose cupcakes You can also add lemon zest for a citrusy kick or drizzle with chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Lavender Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crumbly shortbread, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming.
- Don’t skip chilling; it helps maintain shape while baking.
- Finally, use high-quality lavender for the best flavor and aroma.
It’s funny how I first stumbled upon making Lavender Shortbread Cookies during a baking mishap when I absentmindedly added lavender instead of vanilla. My family was hesitant at first, but now they can’t get enough of these little delights! For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe recipe.
FAQs :
What are Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
Lavender shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of traditional shortbread with the subtle floral notes of culinary lavender. These cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or as a unique dessert at gatherings. The infusion of lavender offers a refreshing twist, making them stand out from regular shortbread varieties. Easy to make, they require minimal ingredients and provide an aromatic experience that elevates your cookie game.
How do I store Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
To store lavender shortbread cookies effectively, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for up to a week. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Can I use dried lavender from my garden for Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
Yes, you can use dried lavender from your garden for lavender shortbread cookies! However, ensure that the lavender has not been treated with pesticides or chemicals. Harvest the flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them properly. Use culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor and aroma in your cookies. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate homegrown ingredients into your baking.
What variations can I make with Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
You can create several delicious variations of lavender shortbread cookies. For example, adding lemon zest enhances the flavor profile with a citrusy brightness. You might also experiment with different types of sugars or add nuts like almonds for extra texture. lemon poppy seed cupcakes Drizzling melted chocolate over cooled cookies adds a touch of indulgence. coconut tres leches cake Each variation brings its unique twist while maintaining the essence of lavender shortbread. For more inspiration, check out this cake mix waffles recipe recipe.
Conclusion for Lavender Shortbread Cookies :
Lavender shortbread cookies offer a delightful blend of buttery goodness and floral aroma that will elevate any snack time or special occasion. They are easy to prepare and can be stored conveniently for future enjoyment. By using culinary-grade lavender and experimenting with variations, you can customize these cookies to your liking. Whether served at tea time or as part of a dessert platter, these cookies promise to impress with their unique taste and elegant appeal.
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lavender Shortbread Cookies offer a delightful blend of buttery richness and delicate floral notes, creating a unique treat perfect for any occasion. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are simple to prepare, making them a wonderful addition to tea parties, special celebrations, or as thoughtful gifts. With their charming lavender hue and enticing aroma, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender (food-grade)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, dried lavender, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add dry ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Gently press down if desired.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 98
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 42mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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