Lavender Shortbread Cookies are the kind of treat that transforms a simple afternoon into a special occasion. With their delicate buttery crumb and enchanting floral aroma, these cookies are a whimsical twist on classic shortbread. Every bite is gentle yet memorable, and the subtle hint of lavender makes them an absolute showstopper at tea time, gifting or when you just need a sweet moment of calm. Whether you’re new to baking with edible flowers or a seasoned cookie maker, this recipe makes it easy to create bakery-worthy results right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Lavender Shortbread Cookies lies in their simplicity – every ingredient brings something essential to the table. From rich, creamy butter to beautifully aromatic lavender, each one plays a pivotal role in the taste, texture, and elegance of the final cookie.
- Unsalted butter: Gives these cookies their classic melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar: Creates a tender crumb and slight sweetness without overpowering the lavender notes.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the floral undertones and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for the structure of your shortbread, producing a light yet sturdy cookie.
- Dried culinary lavender buds: Bring a gentle, unmistakable floral aroma and a hint of purple fleck throughout each cookie—be sure to use culinary-grade lavender only!
- Salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and highlight the butteriness.
- Extra powdered sugar (optional): A whimsical dusting after baking adds elegance and a subtle extra hint of sweetness.
How to Make Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating together the softened butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl. You’re looking for a texture that’s light, fluffy, and almost cloudlike—this is the secret to tender Lavender Shortbread Cookies. Mixing thoroughly ensures the sugar dissolves and distributes evenly, creating the melt-away quality we all crave in a perfect shortbread.
Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract
Once your butter and sugar are smoothly blended, add in the vanilla extract. This simple step adds depth, warmth, and a comforting aroma that dances perfectly with the lavender, laying the foundation for a truly enchanting cookie experience.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, culinary lavender buds, and salt. The lavender buds distribute their fragrance evenly in the flour, and a gentle whisk helps avoid any pockets of salt. If you love a little citrus zing, you can even add a teaspoon of lemon zest here to brighten up the dough.
Step 4: Mix Dough Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture. Take your time and mix until just combined—overworking the dough can make your cookies tough instead of tender. You’ll end up with a soft, aromatic dough that already promises something special.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half and shape into logs or discs, wrap snugly in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the butter firm up, so your cookies hold their lovely shapes and bake up perfectly crisp on the outside and tender in the center.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
When the dough is firm, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into rounds, cute shapes, or simply slice off rounds if you made dough logs. Place each cookie on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space so they bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake your cookies in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes, looking for just-golden edges. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies should still look pale on top. This keeps the centers tender and preserves the dreamy texture that defines great Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Dust with Sugar
Let the cookies rest for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet—they’ll finish setting up—then move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, give them a gentle dusting of extra powdered sugar for a sweet, snowy finish that feels extra special.
How to Serve Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Garnishes
Garnishing your Lavender Shortbread Cookies can be as simple or as elegant as you like. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a snowy finish, but you can also sprinkle a few extra lavender buds or edible dried flowers on top for a beautiful presentation. If you have culinary glitter or a drizzle of white chocolate, these add even more charm for a festive look.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine brightest alongside a cup of black or herbal tea, like Earl Grey or chamomile, which complement their floral notes without overpowering them. If you’re planning a dessert platter, pair the cookies with lemon curd, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an utterly delightful afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation truly elevates Lavender Shortbread Cookies. Stack them in glass jars adorned with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift, or arrange them on a vintage cake stand lined with a lace doily for a charming tea party centerpiece. For special occasions, tie bundles of cookies with twine and tuck in a sprig of fresh lavender for a rustic, aromatic touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled Lavender Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep their buttery freshness for up to one week, making them a perfect choice for bake-ahead treats to have on hand for guests or midweek cravings.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully, both before and after baking. To freeze the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic and store for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking. Baked cookies can be stacked with parchment between layers and frozen for up to 3 months—simply let them come to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Lavender Shortbread Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer a just-baked taste, gently warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 3-4 minutes. This “revives” their aroma and texture without drying them out, making them taste freshly made all over again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Fresh lavender is very fragrant, but it’s best to use dried culinary lavender buds for predictable flavor and texture. If using fresh, use half the amount, and make sure it’s culinary-grade and cleaned thoroughly.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
Absolutely no problem! A sturdy wooden spoon and a bit of elbow grease will get the job done. Creaming by hand takes a little extra time, but the final Lavender Shortbread Cookies will taste every bit as delicious.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. The texture stays remarkably close to classic shortbread, so everyone can enjoy these beautiful cookies!
How strong is the lavender flavor?
The lavender flavor is delicate and never overpowering if you stick to the recommended amount. Too much can be overly perfumed, but at one tablespoon, you’ll get just a hint of floral essence that perfectly complements the buttery shortbread.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling is highly recommended for these cookies. It helps the dough firm up, making it easy to slice or cut shapes, and ensures your Lavender Shortbread Cookies keep their crisp, tender texture when baked.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never baked with edible flowers before, Lavender Shortbread Cookies are the perfect place to start—they’re as delightful to make as they are to eat. Give this recipe a try, share a batch with your favorite people, and let a little bit of floral magic brighten your next tea time.
Print
Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these delicate Lavender Shortbread Cookies. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a subtle floral aroma, these cookies are perfect for a relaxing afternoon tea or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, lavender, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape into logs or press into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat and Shape: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thick and cut into shapes using cookie cutters, or slice into rounds if using a log shape.
- Bake: Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Dusting: Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender only.
- For a citrus twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough.
- These cookies pair beautifully with tea and make a lovely gift.
