Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies: A Delightful Recipe for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a unique and elegant cookie recipe that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the floral aroma of lavender, then Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for you. These delicate, buttery cookies filled with a creamy lavender buttercream are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making these delightful cookies, share tips for perfecting the recipe, and explore why this combination of flavors works so well. Plus, we’ll ensure this post is SEO-optimized around the keyword “Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies” to help you find it easily.

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Why Lemon and Lavender?

The combination of lemon and lavender might sound unusual, but it’s a match made in culinary heaven. Lemon brings a bright, tangy flavor that balances the subtle floral notes of lavender. Together, they create a sophisticated and refreshing taste that’s perfect for cookies, cakes, and other desserts.

Lavender, a herb often associated with relaxation and aromatherapy, adds a unique twist to baked goods. When used in moderation, it imparts a delicate floral flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus. Culinary lavender is key here—make sure to use food-grade lavender to ensure the best results.

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Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Course: Cookies
Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 180 kcal per cookie

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Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Lavender Buttercream Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely ground
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A few drops of purple food coloring (optional)

Garnish:

• Thin lemon slices
• Fresh lavender sprigs

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Steps to Make Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Making the Cookies:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt throughout the dough.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale in color and have a creamy texture.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until fully incorporated. The lemon zest adds a burst of citrus flavor that complements the lavender beautifully.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. Roll Out the Dough:
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake:
   Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

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The Magic of Lemon and Lavender in Baking

The combination of lemon and lavender is a match made in culinary heaven, offering a unique blend of flavors that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Lemon, with its bright and tangy profile, brings a burst of citrusy freshness to any dish. Lavender, on the other hand, adds a subtle floral note that is both calming and aromatic. When these two ingredients come together, they create a harmonious balance that is perfect for baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries.

Lemon zest is the star of the show when it comes to infusing baked goods with citrus flavor. Unlike lemon juice, which can be overpowering, lemon zest provides a more nuanced and fragrant taste. It’s packed with essential oils that release their aroma when baked, making it an ideal ingredient for cookies. Lavender, particularly culinary lavender, is a versatile herb that can elevate desserts with its delicate floral notes. However, it’s important to use it sparingly, as its flavor can quickly become overwhelming.

The pairing of lemon and lavender is not just about taste—it’s also about the sensory experience. The vibrant yellow hue of lemon zest contrasts beautifully with the soft purple tones of lavender, making these cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious. Additionally, the aroma of these two ingredients is incredibly inviting, filling your kitchen with a scent that is both uplifting and soothing.

When baking with lavender, it’s crucial to use culinary-grade lavender, as other varieties may contain pesticides or additives that are not safe for consumption. Grinding the lavender finely ensures that it blends seamlessly into the buttercream, providing a smooth texture and consistent flavor. Together, lemon and lavender create a dessert that is not only delicious but also memorable, making these cookies a standout treat for any occasion.

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Baking is both an art and a science, and achieving the perfect Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients:
   Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start. This helps create a smooth, even dough and prevents the buttercream from curdling.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough:
   Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined, and avoid overworking it when rolling it out.
3. Chill the Dough if Necessary:
   If the dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
4. Watch the Baking Time:
   These cookies bake quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges start to turn golden. Overbaking can result in dry, crumbly cookies.
5. Grind the Lavender Finely:
   To avoid a gritty texture in the buttercream, grind the culinary lavender as finely as possible. You can use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder for this step.
6. Experiment with Food Coloring:
   While the purple food coloring is optional, it adds a lovely touch that enhances the visual appeal of the cookies. Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant hue.
7. Let the Cookies Cool Completely:
   Before assembling the cookies, make sure they are completely cool. If the cookies are even slightly warm, the buttercream will melt and lose its shape.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies that are not only delicious but also visually stunning.

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 Serving and Storing Your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Once your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are assembled, it’s time to think about how to serve and store them. These cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, from afternoon tea parties to elegant dessert tables. Here’s how to make the most of them:

Serving Suggestions:

• Tea Party Delight: Pair these cookies with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a floral herbal tea like chamomile or lavender. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other bite-sized desserts like macarons or mini tarts for an elegant presentation.
• Gift Idea: Package the cookies in a beautiful box or tin and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift. Add a sprig of fresh lavender or a lemon slice for a finishing touch.

Storing Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
• Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate or prefer a firmer buttercream, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving to restore their texture.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well, making them a great make-ahead option. Place the unfilled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling with buttercream.

Preparing the Lavender Buttercream:

1. Cream the Butter:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add in the powdered sugar, a little at a time, until fully incorporated. This prevents the sugar from flying everywhere and ensures a smooth buttercream.
3. Infuse with Lavender:
   Mix in the ground culinary lavender, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. If desired, add a few drops of purple food coloring for a lovely lavender hue.
4. Beat Until Fluffy:
   Continue to beat the mixture until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The buttercream should be smooth and spreadable.

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Assembling the Cookies:

1. Fill the Cookies:
   Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous layer of lavender buttercream onto the flat side of half the cookies.
2. Create the Sandwiches:
   Place another cookie on top, gently pressing down to create a sandwich.
3. Add Lavender Buttercream on Top:
   For an extra touch of flavor and elegance, pipe a small swirl of lavender buttercream on the top of each assembled sandwich cookie.
4. Garnish:
   Decorate the top of each cookie with a thin lemon slice and a fresh lavender sprig. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also hints at the flavors inside.

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Tips for Perfect Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   Fresh lemon zest and high-quality culinary lavender are essential for achieving the best flavor.
2. Don’t Overbake:
   Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can result in dry cookies, so remove them as soon as the edges start to turn golden.
3. Grind the Lavender Finely:
   To avoid a gritty texture in the buttercream, make sure to grind the culinary lavender as finely as possible.
4. Experiment with Food Coloring:
   While the purple food coloring is optional, it adds a lovely touch that makes the cookies even more visually appealing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of lemon and lavender is unexpected yet delightful.
• Elegant Presentation: These cookies are perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
• Easy to Make: Despite their sophisticated appearance, these cookies are straightforward to prepare.

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Final Thoughts

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with the delicate floral notes of lavender. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields stunning results.