If you’re ready to elevate your baking game, this Lemon Lavender Shortbread recipe is a must-try. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create melt-in-your-mouth cookies that blend refreshing lemon and aromatic lavender. I’ll guide you step-by-step, making this delightful treat easy to whip up. So grab your apron and let’s dive into a world of flavor that will impress friends and family alike!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of lemon and lavender provides a refreshing and aromatic twist to traditional shortbread.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for tea parties, gifts, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
- Beautiful Presentation: The delicate nature and dusting of powdered sugar make these shortbread cookies visually appealing for any dessert table.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you need for lemon lavender shortbread:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds, finely chopped
– Zest of 1 large lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon salt
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. The butter should be soft, so it mixes well. I like to use powdered sugar for a smooth texture. The culinary lavender adds a floral note. Make sure it is safe for cooking. Fresh lemon juice and zest give a bright, zesty flavor. Salt helps balance the sweetness.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to make a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy.
– Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir until smooth.
– Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped lavender. Fold gently.
– Shape the dough into a disc about 1 inch thick. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
– After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
– Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about an inch between each cookie.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges turn light golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
– Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Use room temperature butter for the best texture.
– Mix the dough gently to keep it soft.
– Look for light golden edges to check if they’re done.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair these cookies with tea or lemonade for a tasty treat.
– Present them on a bright platter with fresh lavender for flair.
Pro Tips
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for the best creaming results. This will help create a lighter, fluffier texture in your shortbread.
- Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Cookie Thickness: Roll your dough to an even thickness of about ¼ inch for consistent baking. Thicker cookies will take longer to bake, while thinner ones may become too crispy.
- Lavender Quality: Use culinary-grade lavender buds to ensure safety and flavor. Regular lavender used for potpourri or decoration may contain harmful substances.
Variations
Flavor Adjustments
You can change the flavor of your lemon lavender shortbread easily. Try using other herbs like rosemary or thyme. These herbs will give your cookies a different taste. You can also swap out the lemon for other citrus fruits. Think about using orange or lime juice and zest. These changes keep the recipe fun and fresh.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free version, use almond flour or coconut flour. Both work well and taste great. Just remember to adjust the amount of flour to match the texture. For vegans, swap out the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. These options help you enjoy this treat while meeting different dietary needs.
Storage Info
Best Practices
To keep your lemon lavender shortbread fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will keep them soft and tasty. You can use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Avoid placing them near strong smells, as cookies can absorb odors.
If you want to freeze the cookies, let them cool completely first. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label them with the date. They will stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to eat them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Shelf Life
Lemon lavender shortbread stays fresh for about a week at room temperature. If stored properly, they can last longer in the fridge, around two weeks. Freezing extends their life to three months, making them a great treat to prepare in advance.
FAQs
What are culinary lavender buds?
Culinary lavender buds come from the lavender plant. They are safe to eat and add a sweet, floral taste to food. Make sure to use only culinary lavender. Other types may not be safe. You can find these buds in specialty stores or online.
How can I make my shortbread extra zesty?
To boost the zesty flavor, add more lemon zest. You can also mix in some lemon extract. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. This will enhance the lemony taste and make your cookies even more refreshing.
Can I use dried lavender instead of culinary lavender?
No, you should not use regular dried lavender. Only culinary lavender is safe for cooking. Regular dried lavender may contain chemicals or scents that are not food-safe. Always check labels to ensure you use culinary-grade lavender.
What’s the best way to know when shortbread is fully baked?
Look for the edges of the shortbread to turn a light golden brown. The center should remain pale. If you see color change, it’s ready. Avoid overbaking, as this will make the cookies hard instead of tender.
How can I modify the recipe for larger batches?
To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients. Keep the same mixing and baking methods. Make sure your mixing bowl is big enough. You may need to bake the cookies in batches if your oven cannot fit them all at once.
This blog post covered all key aspects of making delightful lavender lemon cookies. We went through the ingredients, preparation steps, and some valuable tips to ensure your cookies turn out great. You learned about variations to explore and how to store your cookies for freshness.
Enjoy baking and sharing these treats! Experiment with flavors to find your favorite. Your kitchen is now ready for cookie magic that everyone will lov
