Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Delicate and Fragrant Treats
Delicate, fragrant, and sweet—these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for a tea party or when you want something special. The combination of floral lavender and zesty lemon creates a light, flavorful experience that’s both refreshing and indulgent. With a soft cookie texture and a creamy lemon lavender filling, they’re ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own with a cup of tea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies beautifully balance the fresh, citrusy zing of lemon with the subtle floral notes of lavender. The combination feels elegant yet comforting, making them great for any occasion. The cookies themselves are slightly crisp on the edges and tender inside, while the filling is smooth, rich, and perfectly complements the flavors. Plus, they’re a fun twist on traditional sandwich cookies, making them perfect for gifting or serving at a tea party.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure.
- 1 tsp dried culinary lavender, finely chopped: Adds a floral note.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Infuses fresh citrus flavor.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Boosts the lemony taste.
For the Lemon Lavender Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the filling creamy.
- 1½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a fresh citrus kick.
- ½ tsp dried lavender, finely chopped: Continues the floral theme.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness.
- 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (to adjust consistency): Creates a spreadable texture.
Directions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make Cookie Dough:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, lavender, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture and mix until the dough comes together.
Roll & Shape Cookies:
- Shape Dough: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with a fork or your fingers to create a disk shape.
- Bake: Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are light golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the Filling:
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lavender, mixing until well incorporated. Adjust the consistency with heavy cream until smooth but not too runny.
Assemble Sandwiches:
- Form Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the lemon lavender filling on the bottom of one cookie, then gently press a second cookie on top to form a sandwich.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Store and Serve: Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days. These cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion—whether gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: About 12-15 sandwich cookies, depending on the size of the dough balls.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Filling and Assembling Time: 10-15 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Different Flavors: Swap lavender with other herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add a few drops of rose water for a different floral note.
- Extra Sweetness: Increase the amount of powdered sugar in the filling for a sweeter taste.
Storage/Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them. To enjoy, let the cookies come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use dried lavender from my garden?
- Yes, as long as it’s culinary lavender. Ensure it’s thoroughly dried and finely chopped.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
- Can I freeze these cookies?
- Yes, freeze them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven.
- What can I use instead of heavy cream in the filling?
- Milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used, but heavy cream results in a thicker, creamier filling.
- Can I make these cookies without the filling?
- Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own with a slight crisp texture and refreshing lemon flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are a lovely, elegant treat perfect for any special occasion—or a cozy afternoon at home. With their delicate flavor, soft texture, and fragrant filling, they’re sure to be a hit at your next tea party or when treating yourself to something sweet and indulgent. Whether enjoying with friends or gifting to loved ones, these cookies never fail to impress.
