Irresistible Recipe for Lavender Shortbread Cookies: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

#### Recipe for Lavender Shortbread CookiesLavender shortbread cookies are a unique and fragrant twist on the classic shortbread, perfect for those who appr……

#### Recipe for Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Lavender shortbread cookies are a unique and fragrant twist on the classic shortbread, perfect for those who appreciate the delicate flavor of lavender. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal treat for special occasions, afternoon tea, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to ensure your lavender shortbread cookies turn out perfectly every time.

#### Ingredients for Lavender Shortbread Cookies

To make your own lavender shortbread cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)

- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for sweetness and a tender texture)

- 2 cups all-purpose flour (the base of the cookies)

- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for a melt-in-your-mouth texture)

- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender (make sure it's food-grade)

- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)

- Pinch of salt (to enhance the sweetness)

#### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lavender Shortbread Cookies

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.

2. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a wonderful texture.

3. **Add Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, dried lavender, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

4. **Incorporate Vanilla**: Add the vanilla extract to the dough and mix gently until it is evenly distributed.

5. **Shape the Cookies**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. You can either roll it out and cut it into shapes with cookie cutters or form it into a log and slice it into rounds. If you're rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.

6. **Chill the Dough**: For best results, wrap the shaped dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

7. **Bake the Cookies**: Once chilled, place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary.

8. **Cool and Enjoy**: After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them plain, or dust with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

#### Tips for Perfect Lavender Shortbread Cookies

- **Use Culinary Lavender**: Ensure that the lavender you use is food-grade and suitable for culinary purposes. Avoid using lavender from garden centers, as it may have been treated with chemicals.

- **Adjust Sweetness**: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your liking.

- **Storage**: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months.

Lavender shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma while baking. Whether you're hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe for lavender shortbread cookies is sure to impress. Enjoy the unique flavors and the joy of baking!