Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies

Name: Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

I absolutely adore baking, especially when I get to experiment with unique flavor combinations. These Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies are one of my favorite creations—a delightful blend of floral notes and zesty citrus that elevates a classic cookie recipe. The light lavender essence paired with the bright lemon zest creates an unforgettable taste that surprises and delights. Each time I make these cookies, I can’t help but be amazed by how the simple ingredients come together to create such a sophisticated treat. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:14:27.567Z

When I first tried lavender in baking, I was skeptical. However, my curiosity won over, and I decided to test it with lemon, a favorite of mine. The result was astonishing; the flavor complemented each other beautifully. The light and fragrant lavender brought a sense of calm, while the lemon added a refreshing zesty kick. It turned out to be the perfect marriage of flavors, and now I make them regularly.

I’ve learned that using culinary lavender is essential for the best flavor. I typically steep the lavender buds in butter for a more infusion that enhances the overall taste of the cookies rather than just adding it directly. This simple step transforms the cookies into a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A unique twist on classic sugar cookies with an aromatic touch
The zesty lemon brightens the lavender's floral notes
Perfect for tea parties, celebrations, or a sweet afternoon treat

The Role of Lavender and Lemon

The combination of lavender and lemon in these cookies creates a sophisticated flavor profile that is both aromatic and refreshing. Lavender not only adds a unique floral note but also provides a subtle complexity that elevates the classic sugar cookie. Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender, as it is safe for consumption and free of any chemicals that could be harmful. This choice enhances the overall taste and ensures that your cookies are not only delicious but also fragrant.

Lemon zest and juice bring brightness to the cookies, balancing the lavender's sweetness with a tangy kick. The acidity from the lemon helps to tenderize the cookie dough, contributing to a softer texture. When zesting your lemon, aim to only take the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. The zest will infuse your cookies with intense flavor while the juice adds moisture, contributing to the delightful, chewy consistency.

Baking Techniques for Success

Chilling the dough for 15 minutes not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. This step allows the butter to solidify slightly, resulting in a firmer cookie that won’t spread too much in the oven. If you're in a hurry, you can chill the dough while preheating the oven, but a longer chill will improve the flavor as well, allowing the lavender and lemon to meld together.

Pay attention to the baking time; each oven is different. Start checking the cookies at 10 minutes—look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. If they are still pallid at this stage, give them an additional minute or two. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so aim for just a hint of color on the edges. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to let them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies:

Prepare Lavender Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the dried lavender and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Strain and let cool.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the cooled lavender-infused butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.

Bake Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies with tea or coffee!

Let the cookies cool completely to allow the flavors to meld beautifully!

Pro Tips

For added flair, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled cookies or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Storing and Freezing

These Lavender Lemon Sugar Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, maintaining their soft texture and flavor. If you prefer to enjoy them later, consider freezing the dough. Roll the chilled dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. After freezing, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to three months. You can bake them directly from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

If you do freeze baked cookies, store them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to four weeks in the freezer. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds to recapture that fresh-baked feel. This versatility makes them perfect for future gatherings or just a cozy night in.

Variation Ideas

For a twist on the original recipe, you might consider adding white chocolate chips or a drizzle of lemon glaze after baking. The sweetness of the chocolate complements the floral notes of lavender very nicely. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate flavors. Adding a pinch of cardamom or a dash of almond extract can also add another layer of complexity to the flavor profile without overwhelming the original lavender and lemon combination.

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This can result in a less rich cookie, so you might want to add a bit more granulated sugar to compensate for the subtle flavor change. Experimenting with these variations allows you to tailor the cookies to your personal preferences or dietary needs while still enjoying the beautiful combination of lavender and lemon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

It's best to use culinary dried lavender for baking; fresh lavender can have a more intense flavor and may impact the cookie texture.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they will stay fresh for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the rolled cookie dough balls for up to three months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use an equal amount of orange juice for a different citrus flavor, though the taste will be slightly different.