As I strolled through a sun-drenched garden, I was captivated by the delicate fragrance of lavender mingling with the vibrant zest of freshly picked lemons. That delightful moment inspired me to create the perfect treat: Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. These elegant cookies not only shine at tea parties, but they also transform ordinary moments into something extraordinary. Plus, they’re a breeze to make, which means you can whip them up for any occasion without a fuss. With flexible options for gluten-free and vegan baking, you can adapt this recipe to suit everyone’s taste. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe and bring a touch of sunshine to your kitchen!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Unique and Elegant: Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies combine refreshing lemon zing with floral lavender for a truly unique flavor profile.
Versatile Variations: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delightful treats.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, these cookies make baking accessible for everyone—from beginners to culinary pros.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a simple afternoon tea or a festive gathering, these cookies bring charm and sophistication to any table.
Irresistible Texture: The perfect blend of crumbly shortbread and a smooth glaze creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s simply unforgettable!
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
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For the Dough
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Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and a tender texture; can be swapped for vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
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Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; consider using coconut sugar for a lower GI option.
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All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure and crumbliness; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.
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Fresh Lemon Zest – Imparts bright citrus flavor; orange or lime zest works as a delightful substitute.
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Dried Culinary Lavender – Introduces a subtle floral note; ensure it’s labeled as culinary for safe consumption.
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Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; use a flax egg to create a vegan alternative.
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For the Icing
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Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing for a beautiful finish; no direct substitutes recommended for optimal consistency.
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Milk or Cream – Adjusts icing consistency; non-dairy milk can be used for a vegan version.
Indulge in these delightful Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, perfectly suited for any gathering or just a sweet treat at home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Prep Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base for your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, the zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender to the butter-sugar mixture on low speed to prevent flour from spilling. Once combined, fold in 1 large egg using a spatula until the dough is smooth. This fragrant blend will infuse your cookies with delightful flavor.
Step 3: Chill
Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm it up. Chilling the dough ensures that your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors as they mingle together.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to approximately ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes, then carefully place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have a little space between each cookie for even baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be slightly golden brown while the centers remain pale. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma of lemon and lavender.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set and makes it easier to handle your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies without breaking.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and enough milk (or non-dairy milk for a vegan version) until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. This sweet and tangy glaze will perfectly complement your cookies.
Step 8: Glaze Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops in the icing or use a spoon to drizzle the icing over them. While the icing is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of dried culinary lavender for an elegant finishing touch. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving your delightful Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
Storage Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, store cookies in the fridge for up to 3 weeks; just ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 3 months and retain their delicious taste when thawed properly.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. Enjoy the delightful experience of your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies!
What to Serve with Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies opens up a world of perfect pairings that enhance both taste and experience.
- Refreshing Herbal Tea: The floral notes in herbal tea beautifully complement the lavender, making your treat feel even more special.
- Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, perfect for enjoying at afternoon tea.
- Zesty Lemonade: Bright and tangy lemonade echoes the citrus flavor, creating a refreshing balance to the floral essence of the cookies.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, making every bite feel fresh and light.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that pairs well with the crumbly texture and sweet glaze of the cookies.
- Sparkling Rosé: The bubbles and slight sweetness of sparkling rosé bring a celebratory feel, making it perfect for gatherings with friends.
- Lavender-Infused Drinks: For a thematic twist, serve a lavender lemonade or cocktail, enhancing the cookie’s lilac essence in an elegant way.
- Lemon Curd: A small side of lemon curd to dip or spread introduces an extra tangy element that will brighten up the experience.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert serves as a healthy contrast while keeping the flavor profile light and refreshing, making it an ideal companion.
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these cookies your own with these exciting variations that will spark your creativity in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive treat!
- Citrus Twist: Swap lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a refreshing new flavor that tickles the taste buds.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds for added crunch and a delightful texture contrast.
- Decadent Drizzle: Boost the icing flavor by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract for a luxurious touch.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other edible flowers like chamomile or rose petals for a unique floral infusion that surprises.
- Chewy Cookies: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture to achieve a wonderfully chewier cookie texture.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, aromatic spice note that complements the lavender beautifully.
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a delightful vegan adaptation.
Get creative! To further expand your baking repertoire, you may want to explore some gluten-free baking tips or check out how to make your own pumpkin spice blend to infuse autumn flavors into your cookies!
Expert Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
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Chill is Key: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies hold their shape during baking.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour measuring to avoid dry cookies. Too much flour leads to dense, crumbly texture.
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Cool Completely: Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before icing. If they’re warm, the glaze will melt and lose its beautiful finish.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Only use culinary lavender to ensure safety and flavor. Non-culinary versions can be harmful.
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Store Thoughtfully: Keep cookies in an airtight container for freshness, placing parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into a disc, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it. This helps meld the flavors while ensuring the dough holds its shape during baking. If you’re looking to bake them later, you can also freeze the rolled-out cookies for up to 3 months. On baking day, simply thaw the cookies before baking and follow the baking instructions as usual. They will come out just as delicious and ready to impress!
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right culinary lavender?
When selecting culinary lavender, look for dried buds labeled as “culinary” at specialty spice shops or organic markets. This ensures they are safe for consumption. Avoid lavender from gardens or floral shops, as they may have been treated with chemicals. The buds should be vibrant in color and aromatic, not dusty or faded.
What’s the best way to store baked cookies?
To keep your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from sticking together.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels sticky, it’s likely that it needs more flour or is too warm. Gradually sprinkle in a bit more flour—start with a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches a workable consistency. Alternatively, if time allows, wrap the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up.
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
While Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are delicious for humans, it’s best to keep them away from pets. Ingredients like butter and sugar can be harmful in large amounts, and lavender may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets. Always opt for pet-safe treats if you’re looking to share lovely moments with your furry friends!
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Very easily! To make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies vegan, simply substitute the large egg with a flax egg. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. You can also use vegan butter and plant-based milk for the icing to keep them entirely dairy-free.
Delightful Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour, lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender to the butter-sugar mixture on low speed. Fold in the egg until the dough is smooth.
- Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to approximately ¼ inch thick and cut out desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth and pourable.
- Once the cookies are cool, dip the tops in icing or drizzle over them and sprinkle with dried culinary lavender.
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