Description
Delightfully crisp and buttery Lavender Shortbread Cookies infused with delicate dried lavender and vanilla. These elegant cookies offer a subtly floral flavor perfect for tea time or gifting, made from simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step creates a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and dried culinary lavender, making sure the lavender is evenly mixed throughout the butter and sugar mixture to infuse the dough with its floral aroma.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until the dough just forms without overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helps the flavors meld.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and cut it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn a light golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the best texture.
- Use culinary-grade dried lavender to avoid bitterness and ensure safety for consumption.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For a decorative touch, press a small lavender bud or coarse sugar on top of each cookie before baking.
- If you prefer a stronger lavender flavor, increase to 1.5 tablespoons but be mindful it can become overpowering.
