Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Introduction

Delicate and fragrant, Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery goodness and zesty brightness. When I first made these cookies for a family gathering, they quickly became a favorite. The combination of fresh lemon zest and dried culinary lavender creates an elegant flavor profile that transports you to a serene afternoon tea setting. As my family savored each bite, the delightful aroma filled the kitchen, making the experience even more special. These cookies not only look beautiful on a platter but also offer a light and fragrant treat, making them ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving the cookies a delicate texture.

3. Add Flavorings

Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and dried lavender. The lavender should be culinary grade, as it ensures the flavor is safe for consumption and enhances the aroma.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. You may find it easier to use a spatula or your hands as the dough thickens.

5. Chill the Dough

Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

6. Slice and Bake

Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into 1/4-inch rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Prepare the Glaze

For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should have a pourable consistency; add more lemon juice if needed.

8. Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: 160 kcal per cookie
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 20 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling time)

How to Serve

• Tea Time: Pair these cookies with your favorite tea or herbal infusion.
• Dessert Platter: Add to a dessert platter for a colorful and fragrant spread.
• Gifts: Package them in a decorative box for a lovely homemade gift.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for bridal showers, baby showers, or garden parties.
• Celebrations: Great for holidays like Easter or Mother’s Day.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons for the best flavor in both the cookies and the glaze.
2. Culinary Lavender: Ensure you’re using culinary-grade dried lavender for safe consumption.
3. Chill Properly: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps maintain the cookie shape.
4. Adjust Glaze: If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice until you achieve the desired consistency.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like almond extract or substitute lemon with orange zest.

Recipe Variations

• Herbal Infusions: Substitute the lavender with dried rosemary or thyme for a different herbal twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the glazed cookies for an added touch of decadence.
• Different Citrus: Experiment with lime or grapefruit zest for a unique flavor.
• Nutty Flavor: Add chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a variety of other cookies for a delightful tea party spread.
• Pair with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a light dessert.
• Combine with cheeses for a sweet and savory cheese board.
• Use as a topping for a lemon mousse or parfait for added flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

• Fresh lavender has a stronger flavor, so if you use it, reduce the amount by half.

2. What can I substitute for butter?

• You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, but the texture may vary slightly.

3. How can I make the cookies more lemony?

• Increase the amount of lemon zest or add a little more lemon juice to the glaze.

4. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of lavender?

• Yes, you can substitute dried lavender with dried blueberries for a different flavor profile.

5. What if my dough is too crumbly?

• If your dough is crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or water to help it come together.

6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

• Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

7. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading?

• Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid over-mixing once you add the flour.

8. Can I add other flavors to the cookies?

• Absolutely! Try adding almond extract or even a pinch of cardamom for an aromatic twist.

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

• The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should feel set but not hard.

10. Can I use a cookie cutter instead of slicing?

• Yes, you can roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create different shapes before baking.

Conclusion

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that encapsulates the essence of elegance and flavor. With their buttery texture and refreshing lemon-lavender aroma, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, presented as gifts, or shared at a gathering, they are sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try and bring a touch of sophistication to your dessert table? Enjoy the delightful journey of baking and indulging in these charming cookies!

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