If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances a bright citrus punch with the subtle floral notes of lavender, you’ve come to the right place. This Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe brings together zesty lemon zest, fragrant dried lavender, and tender, buttery cookie dough, creating an irresistible combination that’s both elegant and comforting. These cookies are light, fragrant, and utterly charming—ideal for cozy afternoons, afternoon tea, or any time you want to impress with a unique homemade delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great recipe starts with the right ingredients, and this one is no exception. The ingredients are simple, but each plays a crucial role in bringing out the bright lemon flavor and delicate lavender aroma that make these cookies unforgettable.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for tender, buttery cookies with just enough structure to hold the sandwich together.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, airy crumb.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest: Bursting with fresh citrus oils, this zest is the star that brightens the cookies.
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds: Provides a gentle floral note that perfectly complements the lemon.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Contributes richness and moisture to the dough, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients while adding structure without making the cookies tough.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, lending a delicate lightness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting): A final sweet flourish that adds softness and elegance.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor with a bright and tangy kick.
How to Make Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help the cookies bake evenly. Setting the stage right will save you time and ensure perfect cookies every time.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is key for the cookie’s delicate texture and will help create that wonderful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Flavorings
Beat in the large egg to bind the dough. Then gently fold in the lemon zest, dried lavender buds, and fresh lemon juice. These three ingredients infuse the dough with the signature flavors that make this Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe so special.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain a tender crumb without overworking the dough.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart for even baking. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges begin to turn a lovely golden hue. Allow the cookies to cool completely before assembling your sandwiches. Once cooled, you’re ready for the fun part — stacking these beauties into perfect sandwiches.
How to Serve Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies even more eye-catching, consider dusting them with powdered sugar right before serving. A tiny sprinkle of extra dried lavender on top adds a whimsical, delicate touch that hints at the floral flavor nestled inside.
Side Dishes
These cookies are absolutely charming alongside a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a refreshing glass of lemon-infused iced tea. Their subtle floral and citrus flavors pair beautifully with light beverages that won’t overpower their delicate taste.
Creative Ways to Present
For special gatherings, try layering these cookies on a pretty platter with edible flowers or lemon slices to enhance their natural beauty. You can also wrap them individually in parchment and tie with twine for lovely homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to keep some cookies around, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, ready whenever a lemony lavender craving strikes.
Freezing
To make these treats last even longer, freeze the baked cookies (before assembling) in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and then assemble your sandwich cookies for fresh-baked charm.
Reheating
Since these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you want to slightly warm them, just pop them in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for a few minutes. This will refresh their softness without compromising the integrity of the delicate lavender flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Fresh lavender is much more potent and can alter the texture of the dough. It’s best to stick to dried culinary lavender buds for a more balanced, subtle flavor in this Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe.
What can I use instead of lemon zest?
If you don’t have lemons on hand, orange or lime zest can work as a substitute but will change the flavor profile. To maintain the original taste, fresh lemon zest is highly recommended.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Traditional all-purpose flour is used here, so the cookies are not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that substitute one-to-one for flour in baking recipes, with some adjustments to texture expected.
How do I cleanly sandwich the cookies without breaking them?
Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before sandwiching. Use a gentle hand to spread any filling or place cookies together to avoid cracks or breaks.
Can I add a filling to these sandwich cookies?
Definitely! A simple lemon buttercream, vanilla cream, or even a honey lavender jam would complement the flavors beautifully and take the Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe to the next level.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a cookie that manages to feel both luxurious and simple, and this Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe does just that. Bright, fragrant, and perfectly tender, these cookies are a celebration of flavor and texture. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and delight your loved ones with a homemade treat that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Print
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fragrant Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, featuring a buttery cookie infused with fresh lemon zest and dried lavender buds. Perfectly balanced with a hint of floral lavender and a touch of citrus, these cookies are soft, flavorful, and dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Ideal for tea time or special occasions, they are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Finishing
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Flavorings: Add the large egg to the creamed mixture and mix thoroughly. Then gently fold in the lemon zest, dried lavender buds, and fresh lemon juice to infuse the dough with bright citrus and floral notes.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb in the cookies.
- Form and Bake Cookies: Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating the cookies are cooked through.
- Cool and Dust: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, dust generously with powdered sugar for a delicate, sweet finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh lemon zest and fresh lemon juice to enhance the citrus aroma.
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect cookie texture.
- Dried culinary lavender buds are preferred; avoid using regular lavender to prevent bitterness.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid tough cookies.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to sandwich two cookies together with lemon curd or a light frosting for variation.
