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Delicate Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

lemon lavender shortbread cookies - featured image

Tender, crumbly shortbread cookies with a bright citrus note and subtle floral lavender flavor, perfect for tea time or a light dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sea salt, and dried lavender buds, breaking up any clumps.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until the dough holds together but remains soft. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times. Pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle and slice into 1-inch squares or use a cookie cutter.
  7. If the dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking.
  8. Arrange the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are just starting to turn golden but centers remain pale.
  10. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Once cooled, sift powdered sugar over the cookies for a decorative finish.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for best creaming results. Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender. Chill dough if too soft to prevent spreading. Watch cookies closely near the end of baking to avoid overbaking. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

Nutrition

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