As I stood in my garden, the sunlight casting a warm glow on the vibrant blossoms, I couldn’t help but be inspired by the beauty of lemon and lavender. These two ingredients, often overlooked, create a magical harmony that dances on your palate. In today’s post, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for refreshing Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies. Not only are these cookies a treat for the senses, but they’re also effortlessly adaptable to fit any dietary need—whether gluten-free, vegan, or simply a craving for something delightful. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert, these delicate cookies offer a quick way to impress your guests while indulging your passion for homemade treats. Curious about how to elevate your baking game with this enchanting flavor combination? Let’s dive in!
Why Should You Bake These Cookies?
Delightful Flavor Fusion: The harmonious blend of zesty lemon and fragrant lavender creates an irresistible cookie experience that brightens any day.
Versatile for All: Perfectly adaptable, you can easily transform these cookies into gluten-free or vegan versions suitable for everyone at your table.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for gatherings, these cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea, making them a charming addition to afternoon tea.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time—perfect for when that cookie craving hits.
Make Ahead Magic: Bake a day in advance and store them in an airtight container for fresh-tasting cookies ready to impress.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough; feel free to substitute with a sugar alternative.
• Large egg – Binds everything together; replace with a flax egg for vegan choices.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of your cookies.
• Lemon zest – Infuses bright citrus notes into the cookies.
For the Frosting
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens your frosting.
• Culinary lavender – Adds floral notes and sophistication; make sure it’s finely ground.
• Heavy cream – Provides a rich, creamy texture; coconut cream works for a dairy-free version.
• Purple food coloring – Optional, but adds an attractive touch for presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot for baking. While the oven warms, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt to combine these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even texture throughout your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 2-3 minutes. This step is vital for achieving those airy cookies, so watch for a pale, creamy consistency that should visually indicate you’re ready for the next phase.
Step 3: Add Egg and Flavorings
Beat in one large egg, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the zest of one lemon. Mix until everything is well combined; you’ll notice the mixture becoming even smoother and fragrant. The citrus aroma of the lemon should start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for your delightful Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—stop when you see the flour fully absorbed. At this point, you can fold in 1 tablespoon of finely ground culinary lavender, ensuring a lovely floral note in your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
With a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the cookie dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading as they bake. Aim for uniform size to ensure even baking, enhancing the visual appeal of your finished cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want the centers to remain soft for that perfect sandwich cookie texture. The delightful scent of lemon and lavender will start to fill your space, making it hard to resist!
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which will prepare them perfectly for the frosting phase of your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened butter and 2 cups of powdered sugar until creamy and smooth, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of finely ground lavender, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting becomes light and fluffy, ready to elevate your cookies.
Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
To assemble your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, take one cookie and spread a generous layer of frosting on its flat side. Gently press another cookie on top to create a lovely sandwich. Repeat this process until all your cookies are paired, resulting in a delightful treat that not only looks beautiful but tastes extraordinary!
Expert Tips for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if possible; too much flour can make your cookies dense instead of light and airy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to promote proper rising, giving the cookies their perfect texture.
• Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help control spread and enhance flavor in your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
• Adjust Lavender: If using dried lavender, start with a small amount and taste your frosting; it’s easy to overwhelm with too much floral flavor.
• Serve Beautifully: Dust finished cookies with powdered sugar or add a touch of food coloring to the frosting for an eye-catching presentation.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on these cookies and explore delightful possibilities!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a yummy alternative. These cookies will still retain their light and airy texture!
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Vegan: Use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter and a flax egg in place of the large egg. It’s an effortless way to cater to plant-based diets without losing flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream in your frosting for a rich, creamy consistency that everyone can enjoy. This option adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
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Nut-Free: Ensure your flour and butter substitutions are nut-free to keep these treats suitable for everyone. This small adjustment makes them school-friendly too!
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Extra Zesty: Add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough for an extra burst of citrus flavor. It enhances the refreshing taste and brings a tangy delight to each bite!
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Flavored Filling: Experiment with different fillings like lemon curd or a luscious cream cheese frosting for a change in texture and flavor. This elevates the experience of your sandwich cookies!
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Lavender Extract: If culinary lavender is hard to find, use lavender extract instead. Start with just 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste for the perfect floral note.
Want to explore more delightful recipes? Pair these cookies with a cup of Greek Lemon Chicken or try out a refreshing Blueberry Lemon Zest dish for a complete flavor experience!
What to Serve with Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Treat your taste buds to a delightful spread that perfectly complements these delicate cookies and elevates your entire dessert experience.
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Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot flavor in this tea mirrors the floral notes of lavender, creating a harmonious pairing with your cookies.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing and fizzy drink, perfect for cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the lemon essence in the cookies.
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Honey Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey provides a delightful contrast in texture, balancing the cookie’s softness.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: A touch of decadence with rich chocolate dipped fruits adds a luscious element, creating a wonderful fusion of flavors.
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Lavender Spritz Cocktail: A light alcoholic beverage featuring lavender essence, which resonates with the floral notes in the cookies, making it a chic pairing.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing bite, complementing the cookies without overshadowing their subtle flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool indulgence pairs beautifully with the warm cookies, making each bite a delightful contrast of temperatures.
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Lemon Sorbet: This tangy and refreshing sorbet will enhance the citrus notes of the cookies and cleanse the palate between bites.
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Homemade Lemon Curd: A tart and creamy spread that can be sandwiched between your cookies for an extra layer of flavor, creating a delicious combination.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain quality and prevent drying. Additionally, the cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days without losing their delightful texture. Simply frost the cookies just before serving, ensuring the creamy lavender frosting stays fresh and vibrant. This way, you’ll have delectable Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies ready to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies
Fridge: Store your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps maintain their freshness and texture while keeping them away from moisture.
Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This brings back their delightful flavor and texture!
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Rewhip before using to restore its creamy consistency.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For fresh lemon zest, choose bright yellow lemons that feel slightly heavy for their size; this indicates juiciness. When selecting lavender, opt for culinary-grade lavender that’s vibrant in color and aromatic, as this will provide the best flavor in your cookies.
What’s the best way to store Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This method preserves their delightful texture and flavor while preventing moisture absorption.
Can I freeze these cookies for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies for up to 3 months! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to harden, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or briefly warm in the microwave.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to scoop, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes will help firm it up, making it easier to handle and resulting in a perfectly baked cookie!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Very! This recipe is highly adaptable. To make the cookies gluten-free, swap in a gluten-free flour blend. For vegan options, use vegan butter in place of regular butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of a large egg. Always ensure that the lavender you choose is pure and free from any additives if allergies are a concern.
How long will the frosting stay fresh?
The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container. However, to achieve that creamy, fluffy texture again, rewhip the frosting for a couple of minutes before using it to finish your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies.
Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cream together the butter and sugar using a hand mixer until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined and fold in the lavender.
- Scoop portions of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden, keeping centers soft.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat together the butter and powdered sugar for frosting; add lavender, cream, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Spread frosting on one cookie and sandwiched with another, repeating the process until all cookies are paired.
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