Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a treat that captures the essence of spring in every bite, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe. These cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious, with a crisp, buttery base infused with citrusy lemon and aromatic lavender, each topped with a dreamy glaze that just melts in your mouth. Perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or simply a sweet homemade indulgence, this recipe blends classic flavors with a floral twist that will delight your taste buds and fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of carefully chosen, simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Each item here plays a special role, whether it’s enhancing texture, boosting flavor, or giving these cookies their gorgeous color and aroma.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of your cookies, this helps create that classic shortbread-like structure.
• Cornstarch: Just a touch ensures supreme tenderness and a delicate crumb.
• Baking powder: Lends a subtle lift, helping the cookies stay soft and light rather than overly dense.
• Salted butter: Cool room temp butter is key for creaming, while the salt highlights the floral and citrus notes.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and ensures they bake up with crisp edges and a gentle golden hue.
• Lemon zest: Fresh zest brings a radiant burst of sunshine—don’t skimp, it’s what makes these cookies sing!
• Dried culinary lavender buds: Be sure to use food-safe lavender for a fragrant, floral note that isn’t overpowering.
• Large egg: Binds everything together while adding richness and structure.
• Powdered sugar: Key for that elegant, smooth glaze that blankets each cookie.
• Fresh lemon juice: The acidity balances the sweetness in the glaze and makes the flavor pop.
• Lavender extract (optional): For those who love extra floral notes, a little goes a long way.
• Purple food coloring: Just a few drops tint your glaze with a charming pastel hue.
• Lavender buds & lemon zest, to garnish: Sprinkle on top for an eye-catching and aromatic finish.

How to Make Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets and Oven

Let’s set ourselves up for cookie success! Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C / gas mark 4), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and guarantee easy cleanup. A bit of prep at the start makes the whole process so much smoother.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Whisk them together for an even blend—that way, every cookie will rise just right and have the perfect delicate crumb. Set aside for now.

Step 3: Beat the Butter, Sugar, Zest, and Lavender

In a large mixing bowl, use your stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, freshly grated lemon zest, and dried lavender. Keep it on medium speed until the mixture turns fluffy and pale—about 2 to 3 minutes. Scraping down the bowl ensures every bit gets evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Egg

Now, it’s time to bring the dough together with a large egg. Mix it in thoroughly until the batter is glossy and smooth—this helps bind your Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe and gives the cookies just the right tenderness.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Turn your mixer down to low and gently add the flour mixture. Mix just until everything comes together. Don’t worry if the dough feels slightly dry—that’s the texture we’re after. It’ll hold its shape while baking and produce dreamy, buttery cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop even portions of dough onto your prepared sheets, spacing them about two inches (5 cm) apart. This ensures they bake evenly and have room to spread ever so slightly.

Step 7: Flatten the Cookies

With clean palms, gently press each dough ball until it’s around 1/3 inch (1 cm) thick. Don’t worry about getting them perfectly round; part of the charm of this Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe is those rustic, homey edges.

Step 8: Bake

Pop one tray into the oven at a time and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for set centers and slightly golden edges. Avoid overbaking—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool

After pulling the cookies from the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for about five minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents soggy bottoms and lets them develop their crisp texture.

Step 10: Make the Lemon Lavender Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and (if you love floral notes) a splash of lavender extract. The glaze should be thick—but pourable. For that whimsical look, stir in several drops of purple food coloring until you reach your desired shade.

Step 11: Decorate the Cookies

Using a spoon, drizzle or spread the glaze over each cooled cookie. Quickly sprinkle with more lavender buds and lemon zest if you wish. Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes—it’s worth the wait for that pretty, glossy finish!

Step 12: Store for Maximum Freshness

Once the icing has fully set, layer your Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe treats between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to four days, making them perfect for gifting or nibbling whenever the mood strikes!

How to Serve Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

For a truly show-stopping batch, scatter a pinch of dried lavender buds and a twist of fresh lemon zest over the cookies just after glazing. This simple touch creates a gorgeous, almost fairy-tale effect and infuses the air with even more irresistible aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with something light and refreshing. Try serving alongside chilled lemon tea, a lavender latte, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe makes them the ideal partner for any warm-weather beverage or dessert board.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a vintage cake stand or a platter lined with edible flowers for a stunning afternoon tea spread. Or, package them in pretty boxes tied with a gingham ribbon—they make perfect homemade gifts for birthdays, showers, or simply to brighten someone’s day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe treats fresher, longer by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Be sure to separate layers with wax paper to keep the glaze pristine and prevent sticking.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze both baked cookies (without glaze) and raw dough balls. Simply flash-freeze on a sheet tray, then transfer to freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw cookies at room temp before glazing; bake dough balls straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

If you’d like to refresh your cookies for serving, a short stint—just a minute—in a low oven revives their texture beautifully. Just be sure to do this before glazing, as high heat can melt or dull the frosting. Room temperature cookies are delightful as-is, too!

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

It’s best to stick with dried culinary lavender for this Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe, as fresh lavender has more moisture and a stronger flavor, which might overpower the delicate balance of the cookies.

Is lavender extract necessary?

No, it’s optional! Lavender extract adds a more pronounced floral flavor, but if you prefer a subtler touch or can’t find the extract, your cookies will still taste incredible without it.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a perfectly tender, wheat-free version of this recipe. Just check that your blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I prevent the glaze from running off the cookies?

Make sure your cookies are completely cool before glazing, and whisk the glaze until it’s thick but still pourable. Applying a small amount and letting it set before adding more can also help get those picture-perfect tops.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully. Just mix in batches and be sure your oven has good air circulation so all your trays bake evenly for big gatherings or gifting.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for an elegant cookie that’s both easy and unforgettable, the Lemon Lavender Cookie Recipe will become your new go-to. Each bite is a bright, floral celebration of flavor with old-fashioned charm. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give these cookies a try and share the sunshine with your favorite people!

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