Lavender Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Lavender Sugar Cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic treat, infusing fragrant dried lavender for a subtle floral note. These cookies are perfect for tea time or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and dried lavender buds, mixing until evenly combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Step 4: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Roll the chilled dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger lavender flavor, gently grind the dried lavender buds before adding to the dough, but be careful not to overpower the cookie.
- Try adding a sprinkle of raw sugar on top before baking for a slight crunch and sparkle.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste and tender texture.
Storage
Store the lavender sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and, if desired, warm slightly in the oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
It’s best to use dried lavender buds because fresh lavender contains moisture that can affect the dough’s texture and baking time.
How can I tell if the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges while the centers remain pale. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
PrintLavender Sugar Cookies Recipe
Lavender Sugar Cookies are delicate and fragrant treats that combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with the subtle floral notes of dried lavender. These cookies are perfect for tea parties, special occasions, or any time you want a unique twist on a beloved classic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and finely chopped dried lavender. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up for easier shaping and prevents spreading during baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbrown.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking while warm.
Notes
- For a stronger lavender flavor, ensure the dried lavender is food grade and finely chopped.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should remain soft and slightly chewy inside.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking for added texture and sweetness.
- If you don’t have dried lavender, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of lavender extract.
Keywords: Lavender Sugar Cookies, floral cookies, baking, dessert, tea party cookies, easy cookies, homemade cookies
