Walking through a vibrant summer garden, the scent of lavender fills the air, transporting me to a world of tranquility. How delightful it is to capture that essence in a treat—enter Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies. These delicate cookies blend the soothing floral notes of lavender with the zesty brightness of lemon, resulting in a dessert that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a warm afternoon. Perfect for summer gatherings or an afternoon tea, these cookies are not just a feast for the palate; they're visually stunning too!
One of the best parts? This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just six ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, so you can whip them up in no time. Plus, their unique flavor profile is sure to impress guests, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event. Imagine the smiles as you serve these lovely cookies, paired with a refreshing drink, creating a charm that pulls everyone together. Are you ready to dive into this sweet adventure? Let’s get started on making these delightful Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies!
Why will you love Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is delightful and easy to make with just six common ingredients.
Unique Flavor Combination: The soothing floral notes of lavender harmoniously blend with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a refreshing summer treat.
Visually Stunning: These cookies are not only delicious but also beautifully appealing, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with this elegant dessert that sparks joy with every bite.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Store the cookie dough in the freezer for quick baking later, ensuring you’re always ready for a sweet surprise.
Explore more delightful cookies like these in our post on red velvet sandwich cookies with cream cheese frosting to expand your cookie repertoire!
Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
• You won't believe how simple they are!
For the Shortbread
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie's texture; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich flavor and tender mouthfeel; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Egg Yolk – Adds richness and moisture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Salt – Balances flavors perfectly; no substitutes needed.
- Culinary Lavender – Infuses a unique floral flavor; always use food-grade lavender or omit for a lovely, different note.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure of the cookies; swap with a gluten-free blend if needed.
For the Buttercream
- Egg Whites – Lightens the buttercream for an airy texture; consider aquafaba as a vegan alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the buttercream wonderfully; organic cane sugar makes a great substitute.
- Unsalted Butter (for buttercream) – Serves as the base of the frosting; vegan butter works just as well.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; essential, with no substitutes needed.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the buttercream with acidity; substitute with lime juice for a citrus twist.
- Lemon Zest – Provides a concentrated lemon flavor; it’s crucial for enhancing that refreshing taste in the buttercream.
Now that you have gathered all the key ingredients, let your baking adventure begin with these delightful Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies
Step 1
Begin by making the shortbread dough for your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies. In a food processor, combine powdered sugar, unsalted butter, egg yolk, salt, culinary lavender, and all-purpose flour. Pulse until the mixture is just combined; you want the dough to be somewhat crumbly but able to hold together when pressed. This step should take about 2-3 minutes. Once achieved, you'll notice delightful lavender aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Step 2
Next, shape the dough into disks to chill. Divide the mixture into two equal parts, flattening each into a disk about 1 inch thick. Wrap each disk securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes. This chilling process helps the dough firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading during baking, ensuring that they have a lovely crisp edge and tender center.
Step 3
Once chilled, it's time to cut out your cookies. Preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough between two sheets of parchment paper until it's about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles, making sure you have enough pairs for sandwiching. Transfer the cutouts to a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie to allow for slight expansion.
Step 4
Now, to ensure perfectly shaped cookies, freeze the cutouts for at least 20 minutes before baking. This will help firm them up even more so that they maintain their shape while baking. As you wait, you can enjoy the delightful scent of lavender lingering in the air, a soothing start to your baking adventure.
Step 5
With the cookies frozen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be barely browning when ready. Inspect for a light golden color and a firm edge, while remaining tender in the center. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the warm floral scent of lavender complemented by hints of buttery sweetness.
Step 6
While the cookies cool, it’s time to prepare the luscious buttercream frosting. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, remove the bowl from heat and beat until medium peaks form, reaching a glossy, airy texture. Gradually add the unsalted butter cubes, mixing until creamy and smooth, then stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and zest.
Step 7
Finally, it's time to assemble your gorgeous Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies. Using a piping bag, generously pipe the buttercream onto the bottom of one cookie. Be sure to create a nice mound for a delightful filling. Then place another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat for all cookies, and once assembled, chill them in the refrigerator for a few minutes to set the buttercream before indulging in these scrumptious treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the shortbread dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Alternatively, you can freeze the cutouts for up to 3 months; just make sure they are well-spaced on the baking sheet, and once firm, transfer them to a zip-lock bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can go straight from the freezer to the oven—no need to thaw! For the buttercream, you can mix it ahead of time—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply pipe it onto the cookies and assemble. With these make-ahead tips, you can have delightful cookies ready for any occasion with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies
Fridge: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. This keeps them fresh and ready for any occasion.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the raw cookie dough on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. This way, you can slice and bake fresh Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies anytime you crave them!
Reheating: If you’ve frozen baked cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying. A quick warm-up in the microwave for about 10 seconds can revive their delightful softness.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure that your cookies are stored in airtight containers to prevent them from becoming dry or stale, preserving that lovely melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies Serving Suggestions
Looking for the perfect accompaniment to your heavenly Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies? Here are some delightful pairings that will elevate your dessert experience!
- Afternoon Tea: Serve these cookies with a pot of freshly brewed chamomile or green tea for a refreshing, soothing afternoon treat that enhances their floral notes.
- Lavender Oat Latte: Pair your cookies with a creamy lavender oat latte for a decadent coffee break, blending floral undertones with rich flavors.
- Fruit Salad: Brighten up your plate with a zesty fruit salad featuring strawberries, blueberries, and slices of citrus to enhance the refreshing essence of lemon in the cookies.
- Sparkling Lemonade: Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors with a glass of sparkling lemonade, allowing the sweet floral notes to blend seamlessly with the fizzy citrus brightness.
- Cheese Board: Create an elegant cheese board with creamy cheeses, dried fruits, and a drizzle of honey to provide a savory-sweet balance to your sweet cookies.
These pairings will not only complement the flavors of your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies but also create an inviting atmosphere for your gatherings. Enjoy the smiles and laughter as everyone indulges in these refreshingly tasty treats!
Helpful Tricks for Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Keeping your dough chilled helps maintain shape and prevents unwanted spreading during baking, ensuring crisp edges on your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies.
- Use a Thermometer: An oven thermometer can be a baker's best friend. Accurate temperatures prevent over-baking, allowing your cookies to remain tender and perfectly baked.
- Quality Lavender Matters: Only use food-grade lavender for the best flavor experience. Non-edible lavender may lead to a bitter taste, ruining your delightful cookies.
- Room Temperature Butter: For a smoother buttercream, make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature before mixing. This ensures an airy, luxurious frosting.
- Zest It Up: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It enhances the buttercream's freshness and adds depth to the overall flavor of your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies.
What to Serve with Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies?
Indulging in these delightful cookies is an adventure in flavor, and finding the perfect complement can elevate your experience even further.
- Lavender Oat Latte: This aromatic drink perfectly balances the floral notes of the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing that’s absolutely soothing.
- Lemonade: A classic citrusy refreshment that enhances the lemon in the cookies while adding a vibrant, cooling contrast.
- Rosemary Shortbread: For a delightful contrast, the savory herbal notes of rosemary shortbread accent the sweet lavender perfectly, making for an elegant dessert table.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of color and a fresh, tangy element that complements the cookies beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream is a delightful contrast to the floral cookies, creating a delectable flavor synergy.
- Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy delight brings a refreshing twist to your dessert, combining carbonation with citrus flavors for a fun, festive touch.
- Lemon Curd Tart: Elevate your dessert experience with a tart that mirror the cookies’ lemon essence while introducing a different texture and flavor layer.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea will offer a gentle, aromatic backdrop that highlights the delicate notes of lavender.
- White Wine Spritzer: A light, bubbly wine spritzer provides a refreshing drink option that harmonizes beautifully with the cookies, perfect for warm summer evenings.
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For an indulgent treat, the rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the floral notes, adding depth to your dessert spread.
Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
Do lemon and lavender go together?
Absolutely! Lemon and lavender create a harmonious blend of flavors, with the tartness of lemon beautifully complementing the floral notes of lavender. This combination not only offers a unique taste experience but also adds a refreshing twist that is perfect for light summer desserts like Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies.
How to keep sandwich cookies crispy?
To keep your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If the cookies start to soften, you can lightly re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid storing the cookies in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause them to lose their crispness.
How to freeze Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies?
Freezing Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies is a breeze! To do this, first place the unbaked cookie cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 20 minutes or until firm. Once solid, transfer the cookies to a zip-lock bag or an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you're ready to bake, just slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What does adding lemon juice to cookies do?
Adding lemon juice to cookies brings a bright, zesty flavor and enhances the overall taste profile. It also reacts with baking soda to create a light texture by contributing to leavening. In the case of Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies, lemon juice complements the floral lavender while adding tanginess, making each bite truly refreshing.
What not to take with lavender?
Lavender can interact with certain medications, so if you are taking sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, or blood thinners, it’s best to consult your doctor before consuming lavender in large quantities. That said, using culinary lavender in small amounts for baking, like in Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies, is usually safe for most people.
How long do cookies stay fresh after baking?
Freshly baked Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies can stay delicious for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To extend their freshness, you might want to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This protects them from air exposure and stale effects.
Heavenly Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies You'll Adore
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by making the shortbread dough for your Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies. In a food processor, combine powdered sugar, unsalted butter, egg yolk, salt, culinary lavender, and all-purpose flour. Pulse until the mixture is just combined.
- Next, shape the dough into disks to chill. Divide the mixture into two equal parts, flattening each into a disk about 1 inch thick and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.
- Once chilled, roll out one disk of dough between two sheets of parchment paper until it's about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles.
- Freeze the cutouts for at least 20 minutes before baking. This will help them maintain their shape while baking.
- With the cookies frozen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the buttercream frosting by whisking together the egg whites and granulated sugar, then beat until medium peaks form before adding the unsalted butter.
- Assemble your cookies by piping the buttercream onto the bottom of one cookie and topping with another cookie.
Nutrition
Notes
- Chill the dough to maintain shape
- Use an oven thermometer for accurate baking
- Only use food-grade lavender
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for frosting
- Don't skip the lemon zest!
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