As I poured the fragrant lavender into a bowl, a wave of calm enveloped the kitchen, mixing seamlessly with the bright zest of freshly grated lemon. This Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe captures the essence of tranquility and joy in every bite, making it the perfect choice for a sweet afternoon treat or a memorable gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these soft, chewy cookies that will impress your friends and family while also catering to any dietary needs with easy vegan adaptations. These delightful sandwiches, filled with creamy buttercream frosting, bring a wonderful balance of citrusy brightness and floral notes that dance on your palate. Who’s ready to elevate their cookie game and indulge in a little piece of culinary bliss?
Why Choose This Lemon Lavender Cookies Recipe?
Uniqueness: These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies bring an extraordinary flavor combination that’s seldom found in traditional baking.
Easy Adaptations: Whether you prefer classic or vegan, this recipe can be easily modified to suit your dietary needs—think swapping butter for vegan options!
Impressive Appeal: Serve these cookies at gatherings, and watch them disappear; they’re perfect for bridal showers or tea parties, pairing beautifully with Earl Grey tea.
Quick and Simple: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have delectable cookies ready in no time.
Crowd Favorite: The harmonious blend of lemon and lavender not only pleases the taste buds but also captivates the senses, making it a hit among all ages.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; no substitutions necessary, but can omit for denser cookies.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; consider using sea salt for a more refined taste.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and texture; coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic alternative.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients; a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) can be used for vegan alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure extract is preferred for the best taste.
- Zest of 1 Lemon – Provides vibrant citrus notes; fresh zest is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Culinary Lavender – Offers a floral aroma and taste; ensure it’s food-grade for safety.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and smoothness; erythritol powdered sugar is a great low-sugar alternative.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the buttercream; coconut cream can replace it for a non-dairy option.
- Purple Food Coloring (optional) – Adds decorative flair; can omit if you prefer a natural look.
For Garnish
- Thin Lemon Slices – Enhance presentation with a pop of color and flavor.
- Fresh Lavender Sprigs – Complements the floral taste and adds a touch of elegance.
Try this Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe for a baking adventure that transforms ordinary days into extraordinary moments!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies bake evenly. While the oven is warming up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, which will make it easier to remove the cookies once they’re baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture will provide the structure for your cookies. Set this bowl aside, as you’ll incorporate it into your wet ingredients in the next step.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, roughly 3-4 minutes. The creamy texture signals that your cookies will be soft and deliciously sweet.
Step 4: Add Egg and Flavorings
Next, add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of 1 lemon into your butter-sugar mixture. Beat them together on medium speed until everything is well combined. The fragrant lemon zest will begin to infuse your dough with delightful citrus notes.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain a tender texture in your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies. The dough should start to come together without any dry flour visible.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop to allow for spreading. You should aim for roughly 12 cookies per sheet, ensuring they will bake evenly and have room to grow.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent overbaking, which can make them crispy instead of chewy. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by beating together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of culinary lavender, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy, then adjust the consistency with more cream if necessary.
Step 9: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of lavender frosting onto the flat side of one cookie and top it with another to create a sandwich. Gently press them together to secure the frosting in place. Repeat this process with the remaining cookies.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
For a charming presentation, dust the assembled Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies with additional powdered sugar, if desired. Garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs. These delightful treats are now ready to impress at your next gathering or afternoon tea!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just scoop the dough onto baking sheets and cover with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out, let them sit for a few minutes, and bake as directed for warm, fresh cookies. Additionally, the frosting can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, assemble the cookies with the frosting for a delightful presentation, ensuring your seasonal treat remains just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
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Precision Matters: Measure flour accurately to avoid dry cookies. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level off with a knife for best results.
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Vegan Alternatives: Need a vegan version? Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg to keep your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies delightfully plant-based.
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Baking Time: Watch your cookies closely! Baking times can vary depending on your oven; pull them out as soon as the edges are golden to maintain that chewy texture.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting away, keeping those layers beautifully intact.
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Lavender Quality: Use culinary-grade lavender for a safe and flavorful experience. Regular lavender can taste bitter and could be harmful—trust me, your cookies will be worth it!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, allowing for a chilled treat any time.
Freezer: Freeze lemon lavender cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste!
What to Serve with Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to an enchanting afternoon experience filled with flavor and creativity.
- Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of bergamot in this classic tea beautifully complement the lavender, creating a refined pairing for your cookies.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly citrus drink enhances the lemony brightness of the cookies, making it a refreshing choice for warm days.
- Sweet Fruit Salad: A chilled medley of berries and citrus fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese spread can provide a rich, creamy counterpoint to the light textures of the cookies.
- Light Yogurt Parfait: A layered parfait with yogurt, granola, and berries serves as a light dessert that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ floral notes.
- Lavender Lemonade: For a thematic twist, this floral-scented drink corresponds perfectly with the flavors of the cookies, creating a cohesive experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream provides a luscious creaminess that elevates the entire dessert experience, balancing the cookies’ sweetness.
- Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture and nutty flavor of biscotti can add interesting contrast while maintaining a sweet, delicate atmosphere.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix things up and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream in the frosting for a delicious dairy-free option.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free all-purpose flour to keep everyone included at your table; the cookies will remain soft and chewy.
- Citrus Twist: Swap lemon zest for orange zest for a refreshing citrus variation that changes the flavor profile beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the dough for a delightful crunch; they complement the floral notes perfectly.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in white chocolate chips for bursts of sweetness that harmonize wonderfully with the lemon and lavender flavors.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or mint to create unique flavor combinations that will intrigue your guests; think of a herb garden in each bite.
- Heated Up: For a spicy kick, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the frosting or sprinkle some cinnamon on top; it adds an unexpected zing!
- Stay Classic: If you love the traditional taste, stick with the original recipe! Its simplicity is absolutely charming and perfect for any gathering.
If you’re inspired by these flavors, be sure to check out my delightful Mini Lemon Cheesecakes or beautifully fragrant Danish Butter Cookies for more lemony goodness!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How should I select the lavender for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing lavender for your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, ensure you pick culinary-grade lavender. This type is safe for consumption and will offer the best flavor without any bitterness. Avoid using potpourri or decorative lavender, as they might contain harmful additives. A good rule of thumb is to look for lavender flowers that are bright in color and fragrant, which indicates freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! To keep your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to preserve them longer, place the cookies in the refrigerator; that way, they’ll stay delicious for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to keep them well-sealed to prevent any drying out!
Can I freeze these cookies for future enjoyment?
Absolutely! Freezing your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies is simple and a great way to enjoy them later. Start by placing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to squish out excess air, and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What can I do if my dough seems too dry?
Oh! If you find that your dough for the Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies feels too dry, don’t fret. Gradually mix in a tablespoon of heavy cream or milk (dairy or non-dairy) until it reaches a smoother, stickier consistency. Make sure to avoid adding too much liquid too quickly; adding it slowly allows you to achieve the perfect dough texture without turning it into a batter.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! When making your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, keep in mind that some individuals may have allergies to lavender or lemons. Make sure to check for any potential allergies from your guests before serving. If making for someone with a gluten allergy, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and consider using vegan butter to address dairy sensitivities. The more the merrier, so adapt these delightful treats to accommodate everyone!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe for a Refreshing Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Cream together the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low until just combined.
- Scoop the dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each scoop.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set; let cool for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the butter, powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and lavender until smooth.
- Spread frosting on one cookie and top with another to create a sandwich.
- Garnish with powdered sugar, lemon slices, and lavender sprigs before serving.
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