Description
Delight in these fragrant Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies, perfectly buttery with a hint of floral lavender and bright lemon zest. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, they are an elegant treat perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined for a smooth texture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, and dried culinary lavender evenly into the creamed mixture to infuse the dough with bright and floral notes.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a dough forms without overworking to keep cookies tender.
- Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a log, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing and better cookie shape.
- Slice Cookies: Remove chilled dough from the fridge, slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds, and arrange on the prepared baking sheet with spacing to allow spreading.
- Bake: Bake cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden color. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before moving to a wire rack.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze Cookies: Once cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the tops and let it set to add a sweet and tangy finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- Use dried culinary lavender specifically for edible quality and a milder, floral flavor.
- Make sure butter is softened to room temperature to achieve the best creaming results.
- The dough can be made ahead and frozen before slicing; thaw slightly before baking.
- Adjust lemon zest according to preference for more or less citrus punch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
