As I sifted through a fragrant handful of dried lavender, the floral aroma whisked me away to sun-drenched gardens, filled with the gentle hum of bees and vibrant blooms. This is the essence captured in my Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, a delightful twist on your typical dessert. With the perfect balance of zesty lemon and soft lavender notes, these cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Best of all, they can easily be adjusted to suit gluten-free or vegan diets, making them a versatile option for everyone. Whether it’s an afternoon tea or a cozy dessert moment, these cookies are bound to wow your guests and elevate your baking game. Ready to embark on this deliciously floral adventure?
Why are these cookies a must-bake?
Delightful Flavor Fusion: The vibrant brightness of lemon meets the soft whisper of lavender, creating a flavor masterpiece that will captivate your senses.
Versatile for Everyone: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets, ensuring that no one has to miss out on this delightful treat!
Elegant Presentation: Perfect for tea parties or dessert tables, these cookies will impress your guests with their charming aesthetic. Pair them with a cup of Earl Grey tea or sparkling lemonade for an exquisite experience.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward instructions, these cookies are a great entry point for novice bakers or a quick addition to any seasoned chef’s repertoire.
A Breath of Fresh Air: These cookies will transport you to a garden in full bloom, making them a delightful way to indulge and savor the moment, similar to a light bite alongside Chewy Oatmeal Cookies.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
• Delight in the floral and citrusy fusion!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking powder – Helps cookies rise for a light texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavors.
- Unsalted butter (2x 1/2 cups) – Adds richness and moisture; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the delightful cookie texture.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan-friendly choice.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp + 1 tsp for frosting) – Deepens flavor and aroma.
- Lemon zest – Infuses fresh citrus notes that brighten each bite.
- Culinary lavender (1 tbsp) – Adds soothing floral notes; finely ground for better incorporation.
For the Frosting
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and contributes to a smooth texture in the frosting.
- Heavy cream (2 tbsp) – Provides a creamy consistency; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free variant.
- Purple food coloring (optional) – Adds a lovely hue for visual appeal.
For Garnishing
- Thin lemon slices – Offers a fresh, zesty touch for decoration.
- Fresh lavender sprigs – Beautiful accents that enhance the floral theme.
Enjoy baking these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies that are sure to delight everyone!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add in one large egg, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the zest of one lemon, mixing until well incorporated, which should take about another minute.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until blended. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should come together without any dry patches.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough for the Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies is fully combined, shape it into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up and become easier to roll out. This step is essential for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Step 4: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of finely ground culinary lavender, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy, adjusting the sweetness or consistency as needed to suit your preference.
Step 6: Assemble Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous layer of the delicious lavender frosting on the bottom of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, gently pressing down to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are assembled.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
For an elegant decoration, garnish your cookies with thin lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs. This adds a beautiful touch while enhancing the floral flavor. Arrange them on a serving platter to showcase your stunning Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies and impress your guests!
What to Serve with Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
These delightful treats not only bring a burst of refreshing flavor but also pair beautifully with other dishes and drinks to create a memorable dining experience.
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Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot notes in Earl Grey complement the floral lavender, enhancing the cookie’s essence during afternoon tea.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy drink’s citrusy zing harmonizes with the cookies, making for a delightful, refreshing combination ideal for summer gatherings.
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Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese provide a creamy contrast to the sweet cookies, engaging the palate with texture and taste.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries and citrus fruits adds a vibrant splash of color and bright flavors, balancing the richness of the cookies.
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Lavender-Infused Cream: Serve a light cream infused with lavender alongside the cookies for an indulgent twist, enhancing their fragrant profile.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy smoothness of vanilla ice cream complements the cookies perfectly, creating a harmonious dessert moment.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A light herbal tea serves as a refreshing accompaniment, enhancing the floral notes while cooling down your guests.
Pair these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies with any of these options to elevate your dessert experience to new heights!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, keeping them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks; wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Freezer: Freeze the assembled cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months. Bring back to room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If desired, enjoy cookies warm by popping them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; they’ll taste freshly baked!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these cookies with delightful twists that enhance their charm!
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Vegan: Swap unsalted butter for vegan butter and replace the egg with a flax egg for a dairy-free delight.
A simple change that still maintains the cookie’s exquisite texture and flavor. -
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry.
These changes make them just as delicious, proving that no one misses out on the fun! -
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with dried herbs like rosemary or chamomile in place of lavender for a unique flavor adventure.
Each herb will impart a different bouquet, inviting fresh new experiences with every bite. -
Citrus Boost: Replace lemon zest with orange or grapefruit zest for a zesty kick that brightens up each cookie.
It’s a small swap that adds an exciting twist to the classic flavor! -
Flavorful Frosting: Try a lemon glaze instead of the lavender frosting to elevate the citrus notes in these cookies.
Drizzle it on for an easy yet flavorful touch that beautifully complements the cookie’s base. -
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful texture contrast.
They’ll bring an unexpected crunch that adds depth to your cookie experience. -
Sweet Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the cookie batter for a surprising spicy hint.
This daring addition will create an intriguing layer of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds!
Adding these variations will not only inspire your creativity but also make everyone feel included in this delightful treat. If you’re enjoying these cookies at a gathering, they pair perfectly with a cup of Spicy Chicken Sandwich or a few No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies for a full menu experience!
Expert Tips for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming; cold butter can result in dense cookies.
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Mixing Caution: Don’t overmix the dough! This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
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Lavender Balance: If using lavender extract, start with just 1/4 teaspoon; it’s quite concentrated and can easily overwhelm the flavor.
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Cool Completely: Always let cookies cool before frosting! This prevents the icing from melting and losing its beautiful shape.
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Chilling Time: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes; this helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
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Garnish Creativity: Feel free to get creative with garnishes; different herbs or citrus slices can elevate the aesthetic of your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it as directed, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it. This not only helps to save time but ensures the flavors develop beautifully. Additionally, you can make the lavender frosting and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll out the chilled dough, bake the cookies, and assemble them with the frosting for delightful, fresh results that taste just as wonderful as when made on the spot!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free version, a gluten-free flour blend works wonderfully! Just make sure to check the blend for starches and binding agents for optimal results.
How long can I store Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’d like to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze your assembled Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies by placing them in layers separated by parchment paper. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving, or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that freshly baked taste.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to warm dough or under-chilling. Be sure to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out, and check that your butter is softened but not melted during the creaming process. Also, make sure your oven is properly preheated!
Are there any dietary substitutions I can make in this recipe?
Yes indeed! To make these cookies vegan, simply substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter. For a dairy-free frosting, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Can I use fresh lavender instead of culinary lavender?
It’s best to stick with culinary lavender, as fresh lavender can be too potent and may not provide the delicate flavor you’re looking for. If you do decide to use fresh lavender, I’d suggest using it sparingly and finely chopping it to incorporate it well into the dough.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies: A Refreshing Twist on Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the zest of one lemon, mixing until well incorporated.
- Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut dough into desired shapes with cookie cutters and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of finely ground culinary lavender, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth.
- Spread lavender frosting on the bottom of one cookie and top with another cookie.
- Repeat until all cookies are assembled.
- Garnish cookies with thin lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs.
- Arrange on a serving platter.
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