Description
Delight in these delicate Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies that combine zesty lemon, fragrant lavender, and a sweet lemon glaze for a perfect balance of floral and citrus flavors. These buttery cookies are tender and crumbly, ideal for a tea-time treat or a sophisticated dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and dried lavender evenly to infuse the dough with fragrant and citrus flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt while mixing until the dough just comes together, being careful not to overmix for a tender crumb.
- Chill Dough: Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing and better cookie shape.
- Slice Cookies: After chilling, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for slight expansion.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, tangy glaze.
- Glaze Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over them evenly. Let the glaze set before serving to ensure a glossy finish and perfect sweetness balance.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade dried lavender to ensure the best flavor and avoid bitterness.
- Chilling the dough is important for clean slicing and preventing spreading during baking.
- Adjust the thickness of the glaze with more lemon juice or powdered sugar for desired consistency.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with afternoon tea or as a light dessert.
