There’s something magical about the moment you bite into a Lavender Cookie—the delicate floral aroma meets a buttery crumb, and suddenly, teatime feels just a bit more special. Lavender Cookies aren’t just a treat for your tastebuds, but for all the senses: gently sweet, subtly perfumed, and irresistibly melt-in-your-mouth. If you’ve never baked with lavender before, you’re in for a delightful twist on the classic cookie—fancy but not fussy, and perfect for sharing or savoring solo with a warm mug of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for these Lavender Cookies are humble yet full of purpose—each one brings something essential, whether it’s flavor, structure, or that perfect cookie texture. Stick to culinary lavender, quality butter, and watch how these few staples combine into cookie bliss.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the cookies richness and that oh-so-tender crumb. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Delivers crisp edges and a sweet, golden finish.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a whisper-soft texture and helps balance the usual cookie sweetness.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and lends just enough moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the floral notes and deepens the flavor profile.
- Dried culinary lavender, finely chopped (1 teaspoon): The star of the show—always use culinary lavender for safety and the loveliest floral flavor!
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure and the right amount of chew.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Offers just a hint of lift to keep these cookies soft.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Makes every other flavor pop—don’t skip it!
How to Make Lavender Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. This step is easier (and more fun!) if the butter’s truly at room temp. Cream until everything is pale and fluffy—this is what gives your Lavender Cookies their signature delicate crumb.
Step 2: Add the Egg, Vanilla, and Lavender
Crack in the egg, pour in the pure vanilla extract, and sprinkle in that beautifully fragrant chopped lavender. Mix just until everything comes together and the lavender is evenly distributed. You’ll notice the scent already ramping up and teasing your senses.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step makes sure that the leavening and seasoning spread out evenly and avoids any surprises later on!
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Try not to overmix—this keeps the cookies tender. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for shaping.
Step 5: Portion and Shape the Cookies
With a tablespoon (or small cookie scoop), measure out even balls of dough. Roll them between your palms for a uniform shape, then set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with plenty of room to spread—about two inches apart. Give each ball a gentle press with your hand or the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly.
Step 6: Bake the Lavender Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden and the centers still look a tiny bit soft—they’ll firm up as they cool. Let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 more minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Lavender Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, you can drizzle your cooled Lavender Cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. A sprinkle of additional lavender or even a few edible flower petals adds gorgeous color and elevates the presentation for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pairing Lavender Cookies with a hot cup of Earl Grey, chamomile, or jasmine tea lets the floral notes really shine. They’re also fantastic alongside a bowl of fresh berries, or served after a light spring lunch as a gently sweet finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Lavender Cookies in a mason jar tied with twine for the ultimate homemade gift, or arrange them on a vintage cake stand with sprigs of fresh lavender as a centerpiece. For parties, tuck them into mini treat bags with name tags for edible place settings guests will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Lavender Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep their freshness and flavor for up to five days—if they last that long! Try slipping a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture and prevent the cookies from drying out.
Freezing
These cookies are freezer-friendly. Lay baked Lavender Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Keep them for up to two months; thaw at room temperature for an easy floral treat any time you crave one.
Reheating
If you like your cookies just-warm, pop a few on a baking sheet and reheat in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes. They’ll regain their fresh-baked aroma without losing their tender texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them turn soft or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Fresh lavender can be used, but it tends to be stronger and sometimes more bitter, so use with caution. If you go this route, double-check that your lavender is edible and pesticide-free, and use about twice the amount listed for dried.
Are Lavender Cookies safe to eat for everyone?
Yes, as long as you use culinary-grade lavender, which is grown and processed for food use. Avoid ornamental or heavily fragranced lavender, which isn’t intended for eating.
Why do my cookies taste bitter?
This can happen if too much lavender was added, or if non-culinary lavender was used. Stick with the measured amount and always buy food-grade dried lavender for the best flavor and safety.
Can I make Lavender Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend for the regular flour, and they should bake up beautifully. Some blends might need a touch more liquid, so keep an eye on the dough’s consistency.
How do I get the glaze just right?
Start with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and add lemon juice just a teaspoon at a time, mixing well, until your glaze is thick but pourable. If it gets too runny, simply add a bit more sugar.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall for the gentle charm of these Lavender Cookies—they’re light, fragrant, and instantly transport any moment into something a little more extraordinary. Whether you’re new to floral baking or already a fan, I hope this recipe inspires you to roll up your sleeves and create a batch to share (or keep all to yourself!). Happy baking!
Print
Lavender Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicate and aromatic, these Lavender Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. With a subtle floral flavor and a tender crumb, these cookies are perfect for tea time or as a light dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender, finely chopped
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Stir in chopped lavender.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Shape and Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your hand or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For a glaze, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice and drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Use only culinary-grade lavender to ensure safety and flavor quality.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Floral-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
