There’s something absolutely enchanting about baking cookies that not only taste delightful but also look like they just stepped out of a fairy tale. Lemon Lavender Cookies? Oh, my heavens! These little gems are soft, sweet, and the floral notes of lavender combined with the zingy lemon create a symphony of flavors that will take your taste buds on a magical ride.
I first stumbled upon this lovely recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I was itching to bake something out of the ordinary (and fancy, of course). As soon as the aroma of butter and lavender filled my kitchen, my family couldn’t help but drift into the room, wondering what delicious creation was underway. These cookies have seen me through rainy days, sunshine-filled picnics, and quiet evenings with a cup of tea. Plus, the icing? Divine! Let me guide you through this delightful bake.
What’s in Lemon Lavender Cookies?
Butter: Keeping it classic! I always use unsalted butter for my baking—this way, I can control the saltiness of my cookie dough. You want it to be creamy and dreamy when mixed with sugar.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the star of the show here! It helps create that lovely sweet base and ensures a beautiful cookie texture.
Eggs: These glorious orbs of goodness not only enrich the flavor but also provide moisture and structure to our cookies.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this fragrant extract takes the flavor profile up a notch, making the cookies taste blissfully homemade.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the backbone of the recipe. It provides the necessary structure and tender crumb.
Baking Powder: Our little leavening agent helps the cookies rise to fluffy perfection.
Salt: Just a pinch! It enhances all the sweet and floral flavors without overpowering them.
Dried Lavender: This is where the magic happens! Dried lavender gives the cookies a subtle floral aroma and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Lemon Zest: Zesty, fresh, and bright! It adds a lively burst of citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with lavender.
Powdered Sugar: A must for that dreamy icing that will glisten on top of your cookies.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It gives the icing a vibrant sweetness and tang.
Lavender Extract: A tiny splash packs a lovely punch of floral flavor in the icing, bringing everything together harmoniously.
Is Lemon Lavender Cookies Good for You?
Now, while I’m not saying these cookies are health superstars in disguise, they do have some perks!
Butter does provide its share of healthy fats when used in moderation, and the lavender? Oh, it’s not just pretty! Lavender is known for its calming and soothing properties. It’s been said to help with anxiety (so maybe these cookies could bring a little zen into your life!). Plus, the lemons are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which is great for your immune system.
That being said, do keep an eye on portion sizes. With sugar and some fat involved, indulging in moderation is key.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon lavender extract
– Additional lemon zest and dried lavender for decoration
This recipe will make about 24 delightful cookies!
How to Make Lemon Lavender Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper (trust me, this makes cleanup a breeze!).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix well until combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the dried lavender and lemon zest into your dough. You’ll fall in love with the aroma!
6. Shape small balls of dough (about a tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
7. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; you want these babies just right!
8. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While they’re cooling, whip up the icing! In a bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lavender extract until smooth.
10. Once the cookies are cool, spread a lovely layer of icing on top and decorate with additional lemon zest and dried lavender for that wow factor!
Cookie Magic Tips & Tricks!
– If the cookies seem a bit too soft after baking, fear not! They’ll firm up once they cool down.
– For a toasted twist, try lightly toasting the dried lavender before adding it to the dough. This will amplify the floral aroma!
– Feeling adventurous? Incorporate some poppy seeds or even some chopped nuts for added crunch.
I cannot express how comforting these cookies are. As you take that first bite, let the soft, sweet, and floral flavors dance on your palate. I can almost guarantee these will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking, and when you do, don’t forget to share your beautiful creations with me! Happy baking! 🍋✨
