Introduction
There is something undeniably special about the combination of lemon and lavender in baked goods. The citrusy brightness of lemon paired with the subtle floral notes of lavender creates a delicate and sophisticated flavor. These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are light, buttery, and crumbly with just the right balance of sweetness. They melt in your mouth, leaving behind hints of fragrant lavender and zesty lemon.
Shortbread cookies have long been a favorite because of their simplicity and rich, buttery taste. Adding dried culinary lavender and fresh lemon zest takes them to the next level, making them perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, gifts, or a refined dessert.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. The key to achieving the best texture and flavor is using high-quality butter, fresh lemon zest, and culinary-grade dried lavender. The result is a batch of elegant, bakery-style cookies that look and taste as if they came from a fine patisserie.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful cookies, along with tips, variations, and storage suggestions.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The foundation of shortbread, giving it its rich, crumbly texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Ensures structure and stability.
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender – Provides a subtle floral aroma without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest – Enhances the brightness and pairs beautifully with lavender.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the Lemon Glaze (Optional but Recommended)
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth and slightly sweet topping.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brings in extra citrus flavor.
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest – Intensifies the zesty notes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lavender
Lavender has a strong fragrance, so it’s important to use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure a pleasant taste. If using whole dried lavender buds, crush them slightly using a mortar and pestle, spice grinder, or your fingers. This helps release their essential oils and ensures even distribution throughout the dough.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender shortbread texture. You can use a hand mixer, stand mixer, or even mix by hand with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add the Flavorings
Mix in the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and crushed lavender. Stir well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the dough starts coming together. At first, it may seem crumbly, but keep mixing until a cohesive dough forms. If necessary, use your hands to gently knead the dough into a smooth ball.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential because it helps the cookies retain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor.
Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough
Once the dough is properly chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter, knife, or biscuit cutter to shape the cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cookies onto the sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Avoid overbaking, as shortbread should remain pale with only slight browning at the edges. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional)
For an extra burst of citrus flavor, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over them. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Shortbread
- Use high-quality butter – Since butter is the main ingredient, using a premium brand will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough – Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies instead of the classic tender shortbread texture.
- Chill the dough – This step is crucial to prevent spreading and to keep the cookies crisp.
- Use culinary lavender – Regular lavender may taste bitter or soapy. Make sure to use lavender specifically meant for cooking.
- Avoid overbaking – Shortbread should be slightly pale with only lightly golden edges.
Variations to Try
Honey Lavender Shortbread
Replace half of the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and deeper flavor.
Almond-Lemon Shortbread
Add ¼ teaspoon almond extract for a subtle nutty undertone.
Earl Grey Infused Shortbread
Replace lavender with crushed Earl Grey tea leaves for a tea-inspired cookie.
Rose-Lavender Shortbread
Replace vanilla extract with rose water for a more floral and romantic flavor profile.
How to Store These Cookies
At Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
In the Refrigerator
If glazed, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days to keep the glaze from becoming too soft.
Freezing the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator, roll out, and bake as directed.
Freezing Baked Cookies
Place cookies in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will stay fresh for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Earl Grey, chamomile, or lavender tea for a delicate tea-time treat.
- Serve with lemon curd or clotted cream for extra indulgence.
- Package them in a decorative tin or gift box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a true delight, offering a balance of buttery richness, floral elegance, and citrus brightness. Whether you make them for a special occasion, as a gift, or simply to enjoy with tea, they are guaranteed to impress.
