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The first time I took a bite of a Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookie, I was instantly transported to a sun-drenched garden party, where the air was filled with the soft fragrance of blooming flowers. The combination of zesty lemon and delicate lavender not only brings a refreshing twist to the traditional cookie but also transforms an ordinary afternoon into something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, these cookies offer a delightful balance of flavors that prove homemade delights reign supreme over fast food.

As I experimented with this recipe, I found the process both simple and satisfying—perfect for bakers of any skill level. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, these cookies emerge soft, slightly crisp, and elegantly aromatic. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies recipe that promises to impress and revive your love for homemade baking!

Why try this Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe?

Irresistible flavors: The bright lemon and soothing lavender meld together for a unique taste that’s both refreshing and inviting.
Easy to make: This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring minimal steps and common ingredients you likely have on hand.
Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for tea parties, brunches, or simply a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to delight guests of all ages.
Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus zests or fillings for a personal touch. Check out my other cookie recipes for more ideas!
Aromatic experience: Each bite not only tastes good but also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma, bringing a hint of spring to any day.

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure to the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Baking Powder – Essential for the cookies to rise properly; don’t skip this ingredient.
Salt – Enhances the cookie’s flavor; sea salt can be a delightful alternative.
Unsalted Butter (1) – Provides richness; replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while contributing to their texture; brown sugar can add depth.
Large Egg – Binds everything together and adds moisture; use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce as a vegan substitute.
Vanilla Extract – A flavor booster; almond extract can serve as an interesting alternative.
Lemon Zest – Infuses a fresh citrus flavor; feel free to swap in lime zest for a twist.

For the Buttercream Filling

Unsalted Butter (2) – Key for a creamy filling; consider vegan butter for a similar texture.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve the right frosting consistency; increase for thicker frosting.
Culinary Lavender – Provides that signature flavor; finely ground ensures even distribution; lavender extract is a suitable substitute.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to a rich, creamy frosting; coconut cream works exceptionally well for dairy-free options.
Vanilla Extract (2) – Enhances the flavor of the buttercream; match this with the other extract used.
Purple Food Coloring (optional) – For a lovely aesthetic; leave out for a more natural look.

For Garnishing

Thin Lemon Slices – A decorative touch; fresh mint sprigs also make for an appealing alternative.
Fresh Lavender Sprigs – Lovely for garnish; optional but adds a beautiful touch.

This Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies recipe is filled with delightful flavors that are sure to elevate your dessert game!

How to Make Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Prep Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures no clumps and uniform distribution of ingredients.
Cream Base: In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until everything is nicely combined.
Combine & Chill: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until no flour streaks remain. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into small balls and place them onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space in between. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, and then let them cool on wire racks.
Make Buttercream: In a new bowl, beat the second portion of softened butter with powdered sugar, finely ground culinary lavender, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, fluffy consistency.
Assemble Cookies: Spread a generous layer of buttercream on the underside of one cookie before topping it with another to create a sandwich. Optionally, add a drop of purple food coloring to your buttercream for an exquisite visual appeal!

Optional: Garnish with fresh lavender sprigs or mint leaves for an extra touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming; cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
Do Not Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing activates gluten in the flour.
Taste Test Lavender: Adjust the amount of culinary lavender based on your preference; start with a little, as it can be potent.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon zest enhances flavor significantly; old ingredients might not provide the same zest in your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks before adding buttercream; this ensures the filling doesn’t melt.

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this delightful recipe your own with these fun twists!

Herbal Twist: Swap lavender for other herbs like basil or rosemary for an unexpected flavor burst; a fresh herb garden at your fingertips!
Citrus Zest: Experiment with different citrus zest such as lime or orange; each brings a unique zing that brightens up the cookies.
Vegan Delight: Replace butter with vegan butter and use applesauce in place of the egg for a dairy-free version; tasty without the compromise.
Sweet Filling: Use lemon curd or cream cheese for the sandwich filling instead of buttercream; a tangy surprise perfect for citrus lovers.
Textural Variation: Add chopped nuts like pistachios or macadamia nuts for a delightful crunch; they contrast beautifully with the soft cookie texture.
Spiced Up: Try adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the cookie dough for an aromatic twist; it adds warmth and depth to every bite.
Fruity Extras: Fold in dried fruit like cranberries or blueberries into the cookie batter; they add color and chewy texture, making each bite unique.
Choco-Lavender: Toss in some white chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a sweet, creamy addition; it creates a luscious balance with the floral notes.

Let your imagination flow and enjoy crafting your own version of these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies!

What to Serve with Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies?

Pair these delightful cookies with ideal companions for a truly memorable experience.

Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot flavors in Earl Grey complement the lavender beautifully, enhancing the cookie’s floral notes.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that mirrors the lemon zest in the cookies while adding a bubbly, joyful touch to your gathering.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings bright colors and natural sweetness, balancing the rich, buttery cookies.
Coconut Macarons: These light and chewy treats create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, offering a tropical twist to your dessert spread.
Lavender Iced Tea: Infuse your iced tea with a hint of lavender to echo the cookies’ flavors, creating a harmonious and refreshing pairing.
Honey Yogurt Dip: A creamy, sweet dip adds tanginess and pools of comfort alongside the cookies, making for a delightful dessert duo.
Simple Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly alongside the cookies, adding a cool, comforting counterpoint to their floral sweetness.
Lemon Curd: A tart and tangy spread that complements the cookies’ lemon flavor. Perfect for those who crave an extra burst of citrus freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after mixing to maintain its integrity. Additionally, the buttercream filling can be made up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pull the dough from the fridge, bake the cookies, and assemble them with the buttercream for a fresh, delicious treat that will impress your guests, all with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and delicious!

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This is perfect if you’re making them ahead of time.

Freezer: You can freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: For the best texture, allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving. If necessary, gently warm them in the oven. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies!

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing lemons, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a vibrant yellow color. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these can indicate overripeness or dryness.

What’s the best way to store Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed at room temperature!

Can I freeze the cookies, and how do I do that?
Very! You can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and then assemble with buttercream filling.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, don’t panic! Sometimes the humidity can affect cookie consistency. Simply sprinkle a bit of flour onto the dough and mix gently until it reaches a workable consistency. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to bring it back together.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To make it dairy-free, you can use vegan butter and coconut cream in the frosting. Just be mindful of any allergies to lavender or citrus, and feel free to explore alternative flavor combinations!

Can I use dried lavender instead of culinary lavender?
Definitely! If using dried lavender, make sure it’s food grade and finely ground to avoid large clumps in your cookies. Start with less than you would for culinary lavender, as dried varieties can be more potent. Adjust according to taste!