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This elegant lemon lavender sandwich cookie recipe came together during an inspired spring baking session. The delightful combination of bright citrus and delicate floral notes creates an elevated cookie that tastes of sunshine and garden herbs. These have since become my signature treat for everything from afternoon teas to bridal showers - any occasion calling for an elegant yet approachable dessert.
The heavenly aroma of fresh lemon and lavender draws everyone to the kitchen as these cool. The delicate, bakery-style cookies never fail to impress guests, who are often surprised by how the simple ingredients combine into something so special.
Key Ingredients
- Culinary lavender - Use sparingly for delicate floral notes
- Fresh lemon zest - Provides bright citrus essence
- Unsalted butter - Essential for proper texture and pure flavor
- Lemon curd - Homemade or store-bought filling
- Powdered sugar - Creates tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture
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Essential Techniques
- Butter Preparation
- Allow butter to soften naturally for one hour or cube it to speed the process. Properly softened butter should cream to a light, fluffy texture with sugar. This creates the foundation for delicate cookies.
- Lavender Method
- Mix dried lavender directly into creamed butter to release essential oils throughout dough. Crushing lavender slightly between fingers intensifies the flavor. The tiny purple flecks create visual interest, though grinding is optional.
- Working with Dough
- Handle this shortbread-style dough minimally once flour is added. If dough seems dry, a teaspoon of lemon juice adds moisture and enhances flavor. Roll in powdered sugar before baking for an attractive crackled surface.
- Uniform Sizing
- Use a tablespoon measure or small scoop for consistent 1-inch dough balls. These spread to ideal 2-inch cookies perfect for sandwiching. Create classic crosshatch pattern with fork tines.
- Baking Details
- Monitor closely as cookies bake - look for barely golden edges around 10-12 minutes. Centers remain soft but firm while cooling. Begin checking at 8 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Assembly Tips
- Cool cookies completely before filling. Use one teaspoon filling per sandwich, piped in a circle near edges. Let filled cookies rest one hour for flavors to meld.
These cookies convert even skeptics of floral desserts. The balanced flavors create an addictive treat that disappears quickly at gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy alongside afternoon tea or coffee for an elegant snack. Display on tiered stands at spring celebrations with fresh berries and cream. These pair beautifully with champagne for special occasions or classic Earl Grey tea for everyday indulgence.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with orange zest and cardamom for a spiced citrus version. Use vanilla bean in place of lavender for a traditional flavor. Fill with raspberry preserves to complement the lemon-lavender combination. Dried rose petals offer an alternative floral note perfect for romantic occasions.
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These lemon lavender sandwich cookies elevate the humble butter cookie to an elegant treat. The surprising yet harmonious combination of citrus and herbs creates something truly special. They've become a cherished recipe passed between generations, perfect for both casual family desserts and formal occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Where can I buy dried lavender for cooking?
- You can purchase culinary-grade dried lavender at farmers markets, herb specialty stores, online shops, or gourmet stores. Just make sure it’s labeled for cooking, as non-culinary lavender can contain harmful chemicals.
- → Is it OK to use fresh lavender instead of dried?
- Yes, fresh lavender will work, but you’ll need more of it since it’s less potent. Use about double the amount, and stick to fresh buds. Avoid using leaves or stems and make sure it’s free of chemicals.
- → What if the lavender flavor is too strong?
- Lavender can overpower a recipe if too much is used. Stick with the recipe’s measurement, and to spread the flavor evenly, grind the lavender with sugar before mixing it into the dough.
- → Can I make the lemon curd filling myself?
- Definitely! Homemade lemon curd is a fantastic addition. You just need lemon juice, zest, sugar, eggs, and butter—cook it low and slow until it thickens, and let it cool completely before filling your cookies.
- → How far in advance can I prepare these cookies?
- Bake the cookies up to 7 days in advance and store them in an airtight box. Add the filling within 24 hours of serving so they stay crisp. If you’re using jam, they may keep fresh a little longer.