| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 12 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 465 | 31g | 19g | 42g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 1.5g | 3.5g | 0.10g |
Entrenched in a culinary landscape that draws hearty inspiration from Italian-American traditions, I have been enamored by the magic of blending flavors that transport your taste buds to Italy with every bite. Yet, amidst my usual spaghetti and meatballs, I savour delightful diversions, and one such is the Lavender Shortbread Cookies recipe. A cookie so unique in flavor, combining sweetness with a touch of floral, that it’s bound to add an element of elegance to your regular desserts.
A Touch of Tradition with A Twist of Personality
While my dishes, more often than not, pay homage to my Italian grandparents, it’s fascinating how a touch of personality can transform a classic delight. The Lavender Shortbread Cookies recipe, much like the cookies enjoyed with a cup of tea in the Italian countryside, brings forth the beloved shortbread texture. What sets these cookies apart, however, is the not-so-common, fragrant inclusion of lavender flowers that lend an unexpected, but pleasing aromatic twist.
The Unforeseen Health Benefits
Many wouldn’t associate cookies with health benefits, but these lavender shortbread cookies beg to differ. Lavender, as we know, is a trove of wellness. According to a study in the Healthline, it not only aids in reducing stress and anxiety but also enhances sleep quality, acting as a natural relaxant. Incorporating dried lavender flowers in these cookies then, while boosting flavor, enriches them with these healthful aspects too.
A Delicate Dish Fit for Any Occasion
Given their taste and aesthetic aspects, Lavender Shortbread Cookies could easily feature in your go-to cookies list. Nonetheless, their delicate and elegant demeanor makes them a perfect fit for teatime treats, fancy brunch bites, or even a quiet garden picnic complement. Additionally, they pair wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea during summers or a warm, milky latte in winters, thereby proving their versatility.
All said and done, what’s most impressive about these cookies is their simplicity. With minimal ingredients and a pretty uncomplicated procedure, you can whip up these little disks of delight. So, why wait? Invigorate your kitchen and senses with the aroma of lavender while treating your palate to these exquisite cookies!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for sprinkling
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional)
Method
Step One
Cream the room-temperature butter and powdered sugar together in a large mixing bowl until they’re well combined and the mixture has a thick, creamy consistency.
Step Two
Sieve the all-purpose flour and salt into the butter and sugar mixture, stirring continuously to ensure it’s evenly dispersed.
Step Three
Add the dried lavender flowers into the mixture. Ensure you… – Use only culinary lavender as some varieties may not be safe to eat.
Step Four
Beat in the pure vanilla extract, making sure it’s fully incorporated into the dough for an even flavor distribution.
Step Five
Once the dough has come together, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick.
Step Six
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Seven
Using a cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the lined baking sheet.
Step Eight
Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the granulated sugar and let them cool in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape during baking.
Step Nine
After they have been chilled, bake the cookies in the preheated oven. Start checking them after around 10-12 minutes to make sure they don’t over-brown. If the edges are just starting to turn golden, they’re ready to come out.
Step Ten
For a more tender cookie, brush with a bit of milk before and halfway during baking. This step is optional, and you can skip it if you prefer a crunchier shortbread.
Step Eleven
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, and then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
It’s best to store these delicious Lavender Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container to retain their freshness. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or on their own any time of the day! Enjoy!
