Amidst the hustle of everyday life, a subtle infusion of floral charm and zesty brightness can transform any moment into a delightful experience. That’s exactly what my Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies offer—a whimsical combination of tangy lemon and aromatic lavender that comes together in a melt-in-your-mouth treat. This unique cookie recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s perfect for brightening up tea parties or cozy gatherings, effortlessly elevating your dessert game. Not only are these sandwich cookies quick to whip up, but they also come with a visually stunning presentation that’s bound to impress. So, are you ready to indulge in a taste experience that dances between the sunny citrus groves and the serene lavender fields?
Why are these cookies so special?
Floral Bliss: The combination of tangy lemon and fragrant lavender creates a unique flavor profile that elevates these cookies above your standard treats.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen.
Showstopper Presentation: The pastel hues and delicate filling will make these sandwiches the star of any dessert table.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus zests or extracts for a personalized touch. For tips on how to elevate your baking, check out our post on baking techniques.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for tea parties, gatherings, or as a gift, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – provides a rich, creamy foundation that creates a tender crumb; use at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar.
• Granulated Sugar – sweetens the dough and helps aerate it, resulting in a light, fluffy texture.
• Dried Culinary Lavender – infuses the cookies with its signature floral fragrance and flavor; finely chop for even distribution.
• Lemon Zest – packs an intense citrus punch, brightening the buttery base and enhancing the lavender’s floral notes.
• Vanilla Extract – adds depth, rounding out the bright flavors with sweet undertones.
• All-Purpose Flour – provides structural integrity, ensuring the cookies are stable with the right amount of chew.
• Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors without making the cookies taste flat.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – adds brightness and moisture, delivering an extra layer of tanginess.
• Food Coloring (optional) – adds a whimsical pastel hue for special occasions without changing the flavor.
For the Filling
• Confectioners’ Sugar – creates the silky smooth sweetness of the filling, making it easy to spread.
• Heavy Cream – used in the filling to achieve a rich, spreadable consistency.
• Lavender Extract – intensifies floral notes in the cream filling, harmonizing beautifully with the cookie layers.
Enjoy crafting these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies that beautifully blend floral flavors and citrus zing!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. This setup will ensure easy cookie transfer and prevent sticking. Have your measuring cups and mixing bowls ready for the next steps, ensuring your workspace is tidy and organized.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, showcasing a pale color. This aeration is crucial for the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 3: Add Flavors
Incorporate the finely chopped 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender, along with the zest of 1 lemon and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these additions until evenly distributed throughout the butter and sugar mixture, allowing the enchanting aromas to blend beautifully. This step will infuse your cookie base with delightful floral and citrus notes.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the bowl, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing. Continue until the ingredients are just combined, creating a soft dough. The goal is to retain a light texture, which is essential for your lemony lavender cookies.
Step 5: Mix in Lemon Juice
Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and, if desired, a few drops of food coloring to enhance the visual appeal. Mix gently until the cookie dough is uniform, making sure the added liquids meld seamlessly into the mixture. This step adds an exciting burst of tanginess and prettiness to your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal disks carefully. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes. This chilling time firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out without sticking, resulting in beautifully shaped cookies.
Step 7: Roll and Cut Cookies
Once chilled, take one disk of dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it reaches about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes of your choice, placing them on your prepared baking sheets. Keep the shapes close but not touching, as they will spread slightly during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheets to your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn lightly golden. The cookies should appear set but slightly soft in the center. Allow them to cool on wire racks for a few minutes before gently transferring them.
Step 9: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, prepare the silky filling by beating together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, zest from an additional lemon, and 1/2 teaspoon of lavender extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and spreadable, creating a creamy filling that will beautifully complement your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 10: Assemble the Sandwiches
Allow the cooled cookies to slightly firm up, then take one cookie, add a generous dollop of your filling, and top it off with a second cookie, gently pressing them together. Repeat this process until all your cookies are assembled, showcasing the delicious cream filling in between.
Step 11: Store Properly
Once assembled, store your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing them with layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Enjoy these floral delights any time!
What to Serve with Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Amidst delightful flavors and textures, a thoughtful pairing can elevate your dessert experience beyond the ordinary.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or green tea complements the floral notes, enhancing the aromatic experience of the cookies. The subtle flavors beautifully mirror the lavender, creating a soothing harmony.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries like strawberries and blueberries. Their natural tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet cookies, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Lemonade: Bright, icy lemonade is the perfect drink to pair. Its zesty character accentuates the lemon in the cookies, making each bite feel vibrant and refreshing.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melds wonderfully with the cookies. The creamy texture and vanilla sweetness balance out the floral flavors, creating a decadent, dreamy dessert.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A glass of sparkling water with a twist of lime brings a fizzy lift that cleanses the palate, enriching the overall experience with a hint of citrus zest.
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Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These indulgent treats add a rich, decadent layer to your dessert spread. The bittersweet chocolate contrasts beautifully with the lemony cookies while providing a delightful texture contrast.
These luscious pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies but also create an unforgettable dining experience!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize your cookies with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. The result is equally rich and satisfying!
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Different Floral Notes: Experiment by incorporating dried chamomile or rose petals instead of lavender. Each flower brings its own unique aromatic charm to the cookies.
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Citrus Fusion: Combine lemon zest with lime or orange zest for an explosion of citrusy delight. This blend offers brightness and freshness for a zesty twist!
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Nutty Additions: Fold in chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, into the filling for added crunch and flavor complexity. This not only enhances texture but adds a delightful nutty aroma.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the cookie dough for a surprising kick that beautifully complements the sweetness. This combination creates an exciting flavor contrast!
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Lavender Honey: Sweeten the cream filling with lavender-infused honey instead of confectioners’ sugar. This alternative adds a touch of elegance and pairs perfectly with the floral notes.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining deliciousness. Enjoy the same melt-in-your-mouth texture!
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Decadent Chocolate: Dip half of the cooled sandwich cookies in melted white or dark chocolate for an indulgent twist that pairs beautifully with lemon and lavender flavors.
Bring delight to your baking adventure with these variations! And if you’re curious about other flavor combinations, take a look at our guide on baking with floral flavors for inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the joy of homemade treats without the rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. The baked cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week, ensuring they remain just as delicious. For even longer storage, freeze the unfilled cookies for up to three months; just layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fill with the creamy lavender filling and serve, and you’ll have delightful cookies ready to impress with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their delicate texture and prevent them from becoming stale.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezer: If you want to store your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies for future indulgence, freeze them for up to three months. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place parchment paper between layers in a well-sealed freezer bag.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the cookies thaw at room temperature. Feel free to reassemble with fresh filling for an even more delightful treat!
Expert Tips for Making Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
• Use Culinary Lavender: Ensure you use dried culinary lavender, as fresh lavender contains moisture that can affect texture and flavor.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the scoop and level method when measuring flour to avoid compacting it, leading to dense cookies instead of light, fluffy ones.
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step makes it easier to roll and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
• Prevent Sticking: If the dough is too sticky to roll, lightly flour your surface or return it to the fridge for a few minutes. This will help achieve clean shapes.
• Taste the Filling: Adjust the sweetness of the cream filling to your preference. A small taste test can go a long way in making your sandwich cookies truly delightful!
Enjoy creating these lovely lemon lavender sandwich cookies, and let their floral flavors shine!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting culinary lavender?
Absolutely! When choosing dried culinary lavender, look for buds that are bright in color and fragrant. Make sure they are finely chopped for even distribution in the cookies. Avoid any that have dark spots or a muted aroma, as these may be past their prime.
How should I store my Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies?
To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Very! You can freeze your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies for up to three months. Here’s how: Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or stack them in a single layer with parchment paper in between, then place them in a well-sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature. Feel free to reassemble with fresh filling for the best taste!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky to roll out?
No worries! If your dough feels overly sticky, you can lightly flour your work surface or your rolling pin to make it easier to handle. If it’s still problematic, return it to the fridge for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to firm up before rolling.
Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
It’s important to note that while these cookies are delightful for humans, they should not be fed to pets, especially with ingredients like butter and sugar. Additionally, check for any allergies to ingredients like gluten or dairy before sharing with friends or family. If necessary, consider adapting the recipe to cater to dietary needs.
What are some variations I can make to these cookies?
Feel free to experiment! You can swap culinary lavender for other flavors like almond or orange extract for a fun twist. Mixing in a combination of citrus zests, such as grapefruit or orange, can add a delightful complexity to your cookies. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor exploration!
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies for a Refreshing Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons of finely chopped dried culinary lavender, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until evenly blended.
- Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and a few drops of food coloring if desired until uniform.
- Divide the dough into two equal disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out shapes with cookie cutters, placing them on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden, then cool on wire racks.
- Prepare the filling by beating together 1 cup of confectioners' sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, zest from an additional lemon, and 1/2 teaspoon of lavender extract until smooth.
- Assemble the cookies by spreading a dollop of filling between two cookies, pressing gently together.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.