Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe

There is something irresistibly charming about the delicate balance of citrus and floral notes paired with buttery crumbly texture, which is why I’m so excited to share this Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe with you. These cookies combine the bright zing of fresh lemon zest with the subtle, soothing aroma of dried lavender, all wrapped up in the melt-in-your-mouth bliss that only perfect shortbread can deliver. Whether you’re looking for a delicious afternoon treat or a standout cookie to impress at your next gathering, this recipe hits all the marks with simplicity and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic behind these Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients that are easy to find yet essential in creating those irresistible flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays its part: the butter brings richness, lavender adds an elegant floral hint, and lemon zest wakes everything up with brightness.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup): Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness, and it gives the cookies their rich, tender crumb.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup for dough, 1 cup for glaze): Its fine texture blends smoothly into the dough and glaze for that perfect sweetness without grit.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for dough, 1/2 teaspoon for glaze): A touch of vanilla deepens the flavor and enhances the overall aroma.
• Lemon zest (2 tablespoons for dough, 1 teaspoon for glaze): Fresh zest infuses the cookies with a lively citrus punch that pairs beautifully with lavender.
• Dried culinary lavender (2 teaspoons): Adds a sophisticated floral note that complements the lemon without overpowering.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and that classic shortbread texture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the sweetness and amplify all the flavors.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons for glaze): Brings an extra tanginess to the icing, brightening every bite.

How to Make Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Space and Materials

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably lighter in color. This step is critical for that delicate shortbread texture you’re after—it incorporates air into the dough for a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender. The lemon zest immediately begins to release citrus oils, and the dried lavender adds that whimsical floral scent—trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible right now.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until the dough just comes together. Be gentle here to avoid overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough instead of tender and crumbly.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Shape your dough into a log, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This not only firms up the dough for easy slicing but also helps develop the flavor and texture during baking.

Step 6: Slice the Cookies

After chilling, slice the dough log into 1/4-inch rounds and place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Keeping them uniform thickness helps the cookies bake evenly and look beautiful.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden hue. This subtle color change signals that they’re perfectly baked—give them a quick 5-minute rest on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Lemon Glaze

While your cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to form a smooth, tangy glaze. The lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the powdered sugar’s sweetness beautifully.

Step 9: Ice the Cookies

Once your cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over them with a spoon or piping bag. Allow enough time for the glaze to set and harden slightly before serving—this creates that delightful contrast between the crisp cookie and the glossy, flavorful icing.

How to Serve Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Simple yet elegant garnishes elevate these cookies to next-level treats. Consider topping with a tiny edible lavender flower, a twist of candied lemon peel, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios for added color and crunch.

Side Dishes

These cookies beautifully accompany a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of chilled sparkling lemonade, creating a refreshing pairing that highlights their citrus and floral notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the cookie jar! Arrange your cookies in a rustic wooden box layered with parchment paper for gift-giving, or stack them on a tiered dessert stand at your next afternoon tea party. Wrapping individually in cellophane with a sprig of lavender makes for an adorable and scent-infused party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your iced shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Be sure to keep them flat and separate layers with parchment paper to maintain that crisp texture and keep the icing from sticking.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the unglazed cookie dough log wrapped in plastic wrap, or freeze fully baked and cooled cookies in a sealed container with layers of parchment. They can last up to three months frozen, so you’ll always be ready when a craving strikes.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best enjoyed crisp and fresh, avoid microwaving after icing as it can melt the glaze. Instead, gently warm them at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 minutes in the oven to refresh the texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Fresh lavender tastes a bit bolder and more floral than dried, so if you use it, reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the cookie. Always make sure it’s culinary-grade to ensure it’s safe to eat.

What if I don’t have lemon zest? Can I use lemon extract?

Lemon zest brings fresh oils and brightness that lemon extract can’t fully replicate. If you must use lemon extract, use less and combine it with a bit of lemon juice for flavor, but for best results, use fresh zest.

Are these cookies gluten-free friendly?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as-is. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but expect slight variations in texture.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter for a vegan butter alternative and use a powdered sugar that is vegan-friendly. The overall flavor will remain delightful, though the texture might be slightly different.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to slice neatly and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking. It also allows flavors to meld and prevents excessive spreading in the oven.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring a little sunshine and subtle elegance into your baking routine, this Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. It’s not just a cookie—it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with fragrant warmth and your taste buds with joyful bursts of lemon and lavender. I promise once you try it, these cookies will become a beloved staple for cozy afternoons and special celebrations alike.

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