Delicate Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These delicate lemon lavender shortbread cookies offer a subtle floral and citrus flavor, perfect for elegant occasions or a quiet moment with tea. They are quick, easy, and made with simple pantry ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender buds, finely crushed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (225g) softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar until smooth and pale, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest, 1 teaspoon finely crushed culinary lavender buds, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed or folding by hand until the dough just comes together. Avoid over-mixing.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently to bring it fully together. Roll out to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness. Chill for 15 minutes if dough feels too soft.
- Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer them carefully to the prepared baking sheet. Re-roll scraps once or twice without overworking the dough.
- Bake in the center of the oven for 18–22 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers remain pale.
- Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use culinary-grade dried lavender and crush gently to avoid bitterness. If dough is too soft, chill before rolling. Baking at 325°F prevents over-browning and keeps cookies tender. Dip cookie cutters in flour for clean edges. Cookies taste better after resting overnight. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend including xanthan gum. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 1
Keywords: lemon shortbread cookies, lavender cookies, floral cookies, easy shortbread, elegant treats, lemon lavender dessert