If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances flavors, the Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are an excellent choice. These cookies not only offer the classic buttery richness of shortbread but also introduce a refreshing twist with the bright notes of lemon and the subtle floral hints of lavender. Perfect for tea parties, afternoon snacks, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. lemon aioli shrimp cakes With a straightforward preparation method and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The addition of icing elevates these cookies further, creating an irresistible texture and taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe guides you through every step to ensure perfect results every time. For more inspiration, check out this preserved lemons recipe recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
For more inspiration, check out this strawberry poke cake recipe.
- Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of lemon and lavender creates a refreshing and sophisticated flavor profile that stands out from traditional cookies.
- Beautiful Presentation: The delicate icing adds an elegant touch, making these cookies perfect for gifting or special occasions.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even to novice bakers who want to impress.
Ingredients for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter at room temperature for optimal creaminess and flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookie’s lovely crunch.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest provides vibrant citrus flavor that complements the lavender.
- Dried Culinary Lavender: Ensure you’re using culinary-grade lavender for safety and flavor; it infuses the dough with a gentle floral note.
- Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure to the cookies; sift it before measuring for best results.
- Powdered Sugar: For the icing, powdered sugar creates a smooth texture that beautifully coats each cookie.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking while baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about three minutes.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Mix in the lemon zest and dried lavender until evenly distributed throughout the butter-sugar mixture.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt before gradually adding it to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with icing for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure butter is at room temperature before creaming for better incorporation.
- Culinary Lavender Selection: Choose only culinary-grade lavender from trusted sources to ensure safe consumption.
- Icing Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your icing by adding milk drop by drop until you reach your desired consistency.
How to Serve Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
This Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Tea: The light flavors of the cookies beautifully complement a warm cup of herbal tea, enhancing the overall experience.
- Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds a juicy contrast to the buttery richness of the cookies, making for a delightful treat.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of cream cheese frosting can add a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the lemon and lavender notes.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies up to 48 hours in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Storing: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe bag, where they will last for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This helps restore their texture without drying them out.
Suggestions for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Avoid Overmixing the Dough
Overmixing your dough can lead to tough cookies. When preparing your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, mix the ingredients just until they are combined. The goal is to create a tender texture that melts in your mouth. Once you add the flour, use gentle strokes to incorporate it without developing too much gluten. peach and blueberry salad lemon blueberry dessert If you see streaks of flour, stop mixing! This will help maintain the delicate crumb and buttery flavor that makes these cookies so delightful.
Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the perfect texture in Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. When you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, it firms up, making it easier to handle and shape into rounds or squares. This step also helps prevent spreading during baking. If you’re in a hurry, chilling for a shorter time can work, but you’ll sacrifice some quality. Always remember that patience pays off in baking!
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. Fresh lemon zest and high-quality culinary lavender enhance the flavor profile significantly. Stale ingredients can dull the vibrant taste of your cookies. Make sure to check the expiration dates on both your butter and flour before starting. Fresh butter contributes a rich creaminess while fresh lavender provides an aromatic touch that elevates each bite.
Measure Accurately
Accurate measurement of ingredients plays a vital role in baking success, especially for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. Using a kitchen scale can ensure precision; however, if measuring by volume, spoon flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the container. This prevents compacting and results in better-textured cookies. A small difference in ingredient amounts can lead to significant changes in texture and flavor, so take your time to measure correctly.
FAQs
What is the best way to store Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?
To keep your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them! Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They can last up to three months frozen. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Can I substitute lavender with another herb?
While lavender adds a unique flavor profile to Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, you may substitute it if necessary. Consider using finely chopped rosemary or thyme for an interesting twist; however, adjust the quantity since these herbs have stronger flavors than lavender. Dried chamomile flowers could also provide a floral note similar to lavender while adding their own distinct taste.
How do I make my icing thicker or thinner?
Achieving the right consistency for icing on Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies is important for presentation and taste. To make your icing thicker, add more powdered sugar until reaching desired thickness. Conversely, if it’s too thick, gradually add small amounts of milk or lemon juice until it thins out appropriately for drizzling or spreading over cookies.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?
Absolutely! While lemons provide a refreshing tartness in Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like limes or oranges. Just remember that each fruit has its own unique level of acidity and sweetness; adjustments may be needed in sugar content based on which citrus you choose.
Conclusion for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
In summary, making Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies requires attention to detail but rewards you with deliciously fragrant treats that are perfect for any occasion. Remember not to overmix your dough and always chill it before baking; this ensures tenderness and prevents spreading during baking. Use fresh ingredients like high-quality culinary lavender and vibrant lemon zest for optimal flavor enhancement. Accurate measurements will further ensure cookie success, allowing each bite to shine with buttery goodness and aromatic notes from lavender and lemon zest combined perfectly into every cookie.
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that harmoniously blends the zesty brightness of lemon with the subtle floral notes of lavender. These buttery cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party or indulging in a sweet snack. With an elegant icing finish, they make an impressive gift or centerpiece at special events. Easy to prepare and sure to please, these cookies will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp freshly grated lemon zest
- 2 tsp dried culinary lavender
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Mix in lemon zest and dried lavender until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them two inches apart. Flatten slightly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Let cool completely before icing.
- For the icing, combine powdered sugar and milk until smooth; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dessert
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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