Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies. The lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor that wakes up your taste buds, while the lavender brings a calming, floral note. The combination of these two ingredients makes for a truly memorable cookie that’s not only delicious but also elegant. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, gifting homemade treats, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg, lemon zest, lavender buds, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Gently press down on each dough ball with the back of a spoon to slightly flatten them.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Lavender Earl Grey Cookies: Add 1-2 teaspoons of finely ground Earl Grey tea to the dough for a deeper, tea-infused flavor.
Lemon Glaze: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top of the cookies after they cool. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for a smooth, tangy finish.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute for the egg to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy these cookies warm, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender?

Fresh lavender can be used, but it’s important to use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor. One tablespoon of fresh lavender is generally enough to replace one tablespoon of dried lavender.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges turn golden brown. The centers will still be soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

3. Can I substitute the lemon juice with lemon extract?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lemon extract, but it may slightly alter the flavor. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract and adjust to taste.

4. Is it okay to skip the lavender?

Yes, if you’re not fond of lavender, you can leave it out. You can also substitute it with another herb, such as rosemary, for a unique twist.

5. Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger lemon flavor?

Yes, you can increase the lemon zest to your liking for a more intense citrus flavor.

6. How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

7. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.

8. Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Yes, the dough can be frozen. Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

9. What type of lavender should I use in these cookies?

Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender, which is specifically meant for cooking and baking. Avoid using ornamental lavender, as it may not be safe to eat.

10. Can I make the cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure that your baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Lemon Lavender Cookies are a refreshing and sophisticated treat that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the floral notes of lavender. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to deliver a delightful experience. Easy to make and versatile enough for a variety of occasions, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand.