Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

The Lemon Lavender Cookie is a delightful blend of bright citrus and subtle floral notes, creating a treat that feels both refreshing and elegant with every bite. This cookie pairs the zing of fresh lemon zest with the fragrant charm of dried lavender buds, making it perfect for afternoon tea or a special homemade gift. If you’re looking to bake a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Lemon Lavender Cookie recipe is your new go-to, bringing just the right balance of sweet, tart, and herbaceous flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to create the perfect texture, color, and flavor profile for your Lemon Lavender Cookie. Each item plays an essential role, from the delicate lavender buds to the zest that brightens every bite.

• All-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups / 270 g): The sturdy base that gives the cookie its tender crumb and structure.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Helps create a soft, slightly crumbly texture by lightening the dough.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): A gentle leavening agent that keeps the cookies just a bit airy.
• Salted butter (2 sticks / 225 g): Adds richness and helps carry the flavor of lemon and lavender throughout.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup / 150 g): Sweetens the dough while contributing to the perfect cookie crunch.
• Lemon zest (2 tbsp): Bursts of aromatic citrus brighten the whole cookie experience.
• Dried culinary lavender buds (2 tbsp): Infuse a subtle floral fragrance and delicate flavor.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough together for a cohesive but tender bite.
• Powdered sugar (1 ½ cups / 180 g): The base for a smooth, luscious glaze that adds sweet contrast.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 to 3 tbsp): Balances sweetness and adds a zesty tang to the glaze.
• Lavender extract (½ tsp, optional): Amplifies the floral notes without overpowering the cookie.
• Purple food coloring (3 to 4 drops): Creates a stunning pastel glaze that complements the lemon and lavender colors.
• Lavender buds and lemon zest, for garnish: Adds elegant finishing touches and visual appeal.

How to Make Lemon Lavender Cookie

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Preparing your workspace like this ensures the cookies bake evenly and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together. Mixing these dry items beforehand helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, giving you consistent cookie results.

Step 3: Beat Butter and Sugar with Lemon Zest and Lavender

In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and dried lavender buds until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the dough, making the Lemon Lavender Cookie tender while scenting it with beautiful aromas.

Step 4: Add the Egg

Mix in the egg thoroughly to bind all the flavors together, creating a smooth, cohesive dough that’s ready for the dry ingredients. The egg also adds moisture and helps maintain the cookie’s soft texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed and gradually add your flour mixture. Mix just until combined—the dough may look a little dry, but that’s exactly what you want for the best texture after baking.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Use a small cookie scoop to drop 1-tablespoon portions of dough onto your prepared pans, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Then, gently flatten each ball to about 1/3 inch thickness with your palms, helping the cookies bake evenly and get that classic round shape.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake one sheet at a time for 12 to 15 minutes or until the centers are set and edges have a light golden hue. This careful baking ensures the cookies stay soft and crumbly with just the right amount of crispness on the edges.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool for five minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Perfect cooling avoids sogginess and keeps your Lemon Lavender Cookie sturdy enough for glazing.

Step 9: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and optional lavender extract until smooth, adjusting thickness if needed. Add a few drops of purple food coloring to create a soft pastel glaze that visually complements the flavors. Spoon the glaze over each cooled cookie and sprinkle with extra lavender buds and lemon zest. Let the glaze set for 30 minutes before serving to allow those gorgeous flavors to meld.

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Cookie

Garnishes

Enhance your Lemon Lavender Cookie with a touch of extra lavender buds or a zest of lemon on top. These simple garnishes not only add visual charm but also hint at the cookie’s unique flavors right away.

Side Dishes

This cookie pairs beautifully with a refreshing cup of Earl Grey tea or a crisp glass of sparkling lemonade. The citrus notes in the drink echo the lemon zest, making every sip and bite perfectly complementary.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dessert platter, arrange your Lemon Lavender Cookies on a tray lined with fresh lavender sprigs and lemon slices. You can also sandwich two cookies together with lemon cream or lavender buttercream for an elegant twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Lemon Lavender Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. For best taste, separate layers with sheets of wax paper and enjoy within four days to preserve their tender texture and vibrant flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies without glaze for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw at room temperature and add glaze fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

Reheat cookies lightly in a warm oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to refresh their softness and revive flavor. Avoid microwaving as it may make them chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried in this Lemon Lavender Cookie recipe?

Fresh lavender has a much stronger flavor, so it’s best to use culinary dried lavender buds for a balanced, aromatic touch without overpowering the cookie.

Is it necessary to add the lavender extract in the glaze?

The lavender extract is optional but enhances the floral notes beautifully; you can omit it if you prefer a subtler flavor or don’t have it on hand.

Can I substitute the cornstarch with something else?

Cornstarch contributes to the cookie’s tender texture, but you can try using arrowroot powder as a substitute in the same amount for similar results.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure your butter is at cool room temperature, not too soft, and flatten the dough balls as instructed. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can also help maintain shape.

What is the best way to achieve the purple color in the glaze?

Use gel food coloring for a vibrant, even purple tone without thinning your glaze. Just a few drops are enough to get that lovely pastel effect.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Lemon Lavender Cookie is one of those rare finds that feels special and yet so easy to make right at home. Sharing these with friends or enjoying with a calm cup of tea makes any day feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you try this blend of lemony zest and fragrant lavender, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Go ahead, treat yourself to the joy of making and savoring these beautiful cookies!

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