Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are a delicate and refreshing treat that brings together the floral notes of lavender and the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. These cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, with a subtle fragrance from the lavender that elevates the flavor profile. The soft, buttery cookies are sandwiched with a smooth layer of tangy lemon curd or your favorite jam, creating a delightful dessert that’s perfect for tea time, special occasions, or just because you deserve a treat.

The light, crumbly texture of the cookies pairs wonderfully with the richness of the lemon curd or jam, making these cookies a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With their beautiful golden edges and sweet, fragrant taste, these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Refreshing Flavor Combination

The marriage of bright lemon zest and floral lavender creates a unique flavor that’s both refreshing and comforting.

2. Easy to Make

This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking to whip up a simple yet impressive dessert.

3. Versatile Filling Options

You can use lemon curd for a tart and tangy filling or opt for your favorite jam for a sweeter twist, allowing for customization based on your taste preferences.

4. Elegant Appearance

These sandwich cookies look as beautiful as they taste, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a special homemade gift.

5. Soft and Buttery Texture

The cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth, buttery texture that complements the smooth, tangy filling beautifully.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
Lemon zest (2 tablespoons)
Dried lavender (1 tablespoon)
All-purpose flour (2 cups)
Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for rolling)
Lemon curd or jam of your choice (for sandwiching)

Variations

Different Fillings: Try other fruit curds, such as orange or raspberry, for a unique twist on the classic lemon curd filling.
Herbal Twist: If you prefer a different herbal flavor, try substituting lavender with dried chamomile or rosemary for a distinct taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Frosted Cookies: For a little extra sweetness, drizzle the cooled cookies with a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice before sandwiching them with curd or jam.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer or hand whisk.

Step 2: Add Lemon Zest and Lavender

Mix in the lemon zest and dried lavender, ensuring that the lavender is evenly distributed throughout the butter and sugar mixture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. You may need to use your hands toward the end to fully incorporate the flour.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This will help create a delicate, sweet crust on the cookies.

Step 5: Flatten and Bake

Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or the back of a spoon. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool and Assemble

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, spread a small amount of lemon curd or jam on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another. Repeat until all cookies are assembled.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Lavender: Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender to ensure it is safe to eat and has the best flavor. Fresh lavender can also be used, but dried lavender will be more fragrant.
Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling into balls and baking.
Even Size: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough, ensuring each cookie is the same size for even baking.
Keep an Eye on the Oven: Since baking times can vary depending on your oven, keep a close watch on the cookies to avoid overbaking them. They should be just lightly golden at the edges when done.

How to Serve

At Tea Time: Serve these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies alongside a hot cup of tea for an elegant afternoon treat.
For Special Occasions: These cookies make a beautiful addition to dessert tables at bridal showers, baby showers, or holiday gatherings.
As a Gift: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or box to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They will stay fresh and delicious, but make sure to separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

To freeze the cookies, assemble them as usual and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve them warm, gently reheat the cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to bring them back to their soft, fresh texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon zest?

While lemon juice will add a tangy flavor, lemon zest is needed for the subtle, aromatic lemony taste. It’s best to use both the zest and juice for a balanced flavor.

2. Can I substitute the lavender with another herb?

Yes, you can substitute dried lavender with other edible flowers like chamomile or rose petals for a different herbal note.

3. What can I use instead of lemon curd?

If you prefer a different filling, try using raspberry or strawberry jam, or even cream cheese frosting for a rich and creamy center.

4. Can I make these cookies without the filling?

Yes, you can bake these cookies as simple sugar cookies without the filling. Just enjoy them as a sweet, fragrant cookie on their own.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure the flour is suitable for baking.

8. Can I add other flavors to the cookies?

You can experiment with different flavors like vanilla, almond extract, or orange zest to change up the flavor profile of the cookies.

9. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Chilling the dough before baking helps prevent excessive spreading and ensures the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

10. Can I use a different type of sugar for the dough?

You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or brown sugar for a slightly different flavor, though the texture may change slightly.

Conclusion

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are a fragrant and elegant treat that will brighten any occasion. With their delicate floral flavor and buttery texture, these cookies offer a unique twist on the classic sandwich cookie. Easy to make and versatile in flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them to someone special, or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are a perfect way to indulge in a sweet, citrusy delight.