A Refreshing Floral-Citrus Cookie Delight

These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and aromatic lavender, perfect for special occasions or as an elegant treat with tea. The buttery shortbread base is enhanced with floral hints and zesty lemon, topped with a simple icing and garnished with lavender flowers for a sophisticated finish.

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon dried lavender
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Icing:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• For Garnishing:
  • Extra dried lavender flowers
  • Optional: A sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh finish

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Shortbread Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with powdered and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined. Stir in the dried lavender, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the dough comes together.
2. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a knife to cut the dough into small squares or rectangles, or use cookie cutters for your preferred shape. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Spread or drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies.
5. Garnish: While the icing is still wet, sprinkle extra dried lavender flowers and, if desired, a light dusting of lemon zest over the cookies for an aromatic and beautiful finish.

Tips and Techniques:

• Lavender: Make sure to use food-grade dried lavender to ensure it’s safe for consumption.
• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Substitutions: For a more subtle flavor, reduce the amount of lavender or substitute with another herb like thyme.

Elegant, Floral, and Zesty

These Iced Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies are the perfect combination of crisp texture, floral elegance, and bright citrus flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, gifting them to loved ones, or enjoying them as a personal treat, these cookies are sure to impress with their delicate beauty and refreshing taste.