Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies combine the bright citrusy flavor of lemon with the floral notes of lavender, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. The buttery shortbread is complemented by a light, refreshing icing, making these cookies a sophisticated and delicious option for dessert trays or tea parties.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. In a bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried lavender.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Roll the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Slice the dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool completely before icing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Lemon-Only Version: If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, you can omit the lavender and add extra lemon zest or juice.
• Lavender Icing: Add a pinch of dried lavender to the icing for an added burst of floral flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use dried lavender from my garden? Yes, but make sure it’s food-safe and hasn’t been treated with any chemicals.
2. Can I skip the icing? Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own without the icing if you prefer a simpler treat.
3. Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough log for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, slice the dough while still frozen and bake as directed.
4. How can I make the cookies more flavorful? Add more lemon zest or a little extra lavender for a stronger flavor. You can also experiment with other citrus, like orange or lime, for a unique twist.
5. Can I make these cookies vegan? Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a powdered sugar that doesn’t contain bone char.
6. Can I make these cookies thicker? Yes, if you prefer thicker cookies, slice the dough into slightly thicker rounds and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes.
7. Can I make the cookies without lavender? Absolutely! You can omit the lavender and still have a delicious lemon shortbread cookie.
8. How do I make the icing? Mix powdered sugar with a few teaspoons of lemon juice or water to create a smooth, spreadable icing.
9. Can I add other ingredients like nuts or chocolate? Yes, you can experiment by adding chopped almonds, pistachios, or even white chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
10. Are these cookies suitable for gifting? Yes, these cookies make an excellent gift when packaged in a pretty box or tin, especially for events like weddings, showers, or holidays.

Conclusion

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a deliciously unique treat that combines bright citrus with floral notes, creating a memorable cookie experience. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you enjoy them with or without icing, they are a perfect balance of buttery, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

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