Name: Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies for Blissful Moments
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Zest; 2 tablespoons Dried Culinary Lavender (Make sure it's labeled for culinary use); 1 large Egg (For vegan option, substitute with a flax egg); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (Use non-dairy alternatives if necessary)

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There’s something truly uplifting about the first bite of an Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookie. The moment you sink your teeth into the buttery, crumbly texture, the delightful zing of fresh lemon zest dances on your palate, while the delicate floral notes of lavender send your senses soaring. I discovered this enchanting recipe during a relaxed afternoon of experimenting in the kitchen, and it quickly became a beloved treat for my tea parties and special occasions.

Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also have the magical ability to impress any guest with their elegance. With options for gluten-free adaptations and the flexibility to swap lemon for other citrus flavors, this recipe invites creativity while ensuring everyone can indulge in the blissful treat. Whether you’re looking to elevate a quiet afternoon or make a statement at your next gathering, these cookies are sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire!

Why are Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies the Best?

Delightful Experience: These cookies provide a sublime combo of buttery texture and refreshing citrus, perfect for any occasion.
Elegant Presentation: Their charming floral notes not only taste divine but also look stunning, making them a go-to for impressing guests.
Versatile Options: With gluten-free adaptations and alternative citrus flavors, everyone can join in on the fun.
Quick & Simple: The straightforward process means you’ll have a delightful treat ready in no time, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Every bite offers a smile, making them ideal for tea parties or family desserts alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Explore our suggestions to elevate your baking game and delight your senses with these amazing cookies!

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and creates a tender texture, ensuring it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s delightful structure.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookie dough; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to create delicious gluten-free Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies.
• Fresh Lemon Zest – Imparts a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the aromatic quality of the cookies.
• Dried Culinary Lavender – Offers a beautiful floral note; make sure it’s labeled for culinary use to ensure it’s safe for consumption.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together; for a vegan option, substitute with a flax egg.

For the Icing
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing, giving it that perfect touch to top your cookies.
• Milk or Cream – Provides the desired liquidity for icing; feel free to use non-dairy alternatives for those with dietary preferences.

Get your ingredients ready, and let’s create some blissful moments with these delightful cookies!

How to Make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Prep Dough: Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes for that perfect texture.
Combine Ingredients: Mix in the all-purpose flour, fresh lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender. Start on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in the large egg, making sure not to overmix.
Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and prevent spreading during baking.
Shape Cookies: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about ¼ inch. Cut into your desired shapes and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges become golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare Icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk or cream in a bowl until smooth and creamy, ready to adorn your cookies.
Glaze Cookies: Dip the tops of your cookies in the icing or drizzle it over them with a spoon. For a finishing touch, add a few dried lavender buds before the icing sets.

Optional: Drizzle with additional lemon juice for extra zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following these steps: after mixing the ingredients, shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, cut into shapes, and bake as directed. For even more convenience, you can store the baked cookies at room temperature for up to 3 days before icing. To maintain their delightful texture and flavor, ensure they are kept in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just glaze the cookies and enjoy the blissful treat!

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful cookie recipe and enjoy new flavors and textures!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these irresistible cookies suitable for everyone.
Citrus Alternative: Swap out the lemon zest with orange or lime zest for fresh and exciting citrus twists that brighten the flavor profile.
Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the tender cookie texture beautifully.
Flavor Infusion: Enhance the icing by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract for an aromatic lift and an intriguing depth of flavor.
Use Other Flowers: Replace dried lavender with edible flowers like chamomile or violets for varying floral notes. This can provide a unique taste experience.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate ground cardamom or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spicy kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Embrace these delightful variations, and let your creativity shine through as you bake!

Storage Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks; ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid absorbing any odors.

Freezer: For freezing, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your iced lemon lavender shortbread cookies fresh, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to maintain the cookie shape and prevent spreading during baking.

Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. This ensures your iced lemon lavender shortbread cookies don’t end up dry and crumbly.

Cool Before Icing: Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before applying the icing. This helps maintain the icing’s smooth texture.

Use Culinary Lavender: Only use lavender labeled as culinary to ensure safety. Non-food-grade lavender can potentially be harmful.

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap lemon for other citrus fruits. Variations like orange or lime offer delightful twists to your iced lemon lavender shortbread cookies!

What to Serve with Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies?

Elevate your tea time or special occasion with delightful pairings that enhance the experience of these enchanting cookies.

Earl Grey Tea: The fragrant notes of bergamot in Earl Grey beautifully complement the floral lavender, creating a harmonious sipping experience.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade, with its sweet and tangy profile, balances the buttery sweetness of the cookies perfectly. Serve it chilled for a summer treat!
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a luscious creamy layer that contrasts the cookie’s crumbly texture, making each bite a delightful flavor journey.
Fresh Berries: A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries introduces a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully, enhancing both color and taste on your plate.
Prosecco: Sparkling Prosecco, with its light bubbles and fruity notes, offers an elegant touch to your gathering. This pairing turns your tea party into a charming celebration!
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy sweetness of coconut macaroons adds a fun texture contrast and a tropical twist that complements the floral notes of the cookies beautifully.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provides a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ sweetness and floral hints.
Fruit Tart: Serve a light, fruity tart alongside the cookies for a stunning dessert spread that showcases various fruit flavors and textures, creating a feast for the senses.
Lavender Lemonade: Elevate your beverage game by infusing lemonade with a touch of culinary lavender. This floral twist ties into the cookies and adds a sophisticated touch to your gathering.

Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely, use unsalted butter that’s at room temperature. This provides richness and helps achieve that tender texture that makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth.

How should I store my iced cookies?
You can store the iced lemon lavender shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for about 2 weeks. If you’re in a particularly humid area, refrigeration in a well-wrapped container will keep them fresh for up to 3 weeks.

Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and let them reach room temperature before serving to revive their delightful taste.

What if my dough is too sticky to roll out?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! Simply add a little bit of flour, a teaspoon at a time, to the surface and to your rolling pin to help manage the stickiness. Make sure to chill the dough adequately, as this helps firm it up for easier handling.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For vegan options, replace the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before using). Be sure to use dairy-free milk or cream for the icing as well!

Is dried culinary lavender safe for my pets?
While dried culinary lavender is generally safe for pets in small amounts, it’s wise to keep these cookies away from them, as the sugar and other ingredients may not be suitable. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about any specific dietary concerns related to your furry friends.