Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the floral notes of lavender. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are perfect for any occasion, from a tea party to a simple afternoon snack. In this article, we will guide you through making these cookies, and you might just find your new favorite recipe!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies is rewarding for several reasons. First, the combination of lemon and lavender creates a unique flavor that stands out. Second, shortbread cookies are easy to make and require few ingredients. Finally, icing these cookies adds a lovely finish and gives you the chance to get creative with garnishing. If you enjoy baking and want to impress your friends or family, this recipe is a must-try!

How to Make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender, finely chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for icing)
Lavender buds (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest, chopped lavender, and vanilla extract.
Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll and Cut the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
Ice the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the lemon icing over the top. Garnish with lavender buds if desired. Allow the icing to set before serving.

How to Serve Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are best served fresh after the icing has set. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can place them on a decorative plate for a lovely presentation. They also make great gifts when wrapped in a clear bag and tied with a ribbon.

How to Store Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them before icing. When ready to eat, simply thaw and ice them.

Tips to Make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Use high-quality lavender: Make sure to use culinary lavender for the best flavor.
Don’t skip chilling the dough: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Adjust icing to taste: Feel free to add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor or more powdered sugar for sweetness.

Variation

You can experiment by adding other flavors, such as a hint of almond extract or even orange zest instead of lemon. This can create a fun twist on the classic recipe.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
A: It’s best to use dried culinary lavender, as fresh lavender can be too strong and may not blend well into the cookies.

Q: How do I know when my cookies are done?
A: The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.

Enjoy baking your Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, and savor each sweet, fragrant bite!