Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Add a Little Sophistication
Shortbread cookies have a history as rich as their buttery flavor. Originating in Scotland, these simple yet decadent cookies were initially made from leftover dough from bread, sweetened and baked to create a crumbly, rich treat. Over time, shortbread evolved into the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies we know today, often associated with special occasions and afternoon tea. The key to a perfect shortbread is using high-quality ingredients, especially real butter, which gives these cookies their signature texture and flavor. Butter not only provides a rich, creamy taste but also contributes to the tender crumb that shortbread is famous for. Adding a touch of lavender and lemon zest elevates these traditional cookies, infusing them with a sophisticated and refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Imagine serving these at a gathering—your guests will be impressed by the unique combination of flavors, as well as the history behind this timeless treat.
Did You Know?
Lavender is not only known for its pleasant fragrance but also for its health benefits. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, and alleviate pain. Lavender is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Ingesting culinary lavender in small amounts, such as in culinary dishes, can help soothe digestive issues and reduce anxiety. The combination of lavender with lemon in these cookies provides a calming and refreshing treat. Additionally, lemon zest is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can boost the immune system and improve skin health.
Recipe:
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest and dried lavender.
Personal Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This will help it cream smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and airy dough.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Personal Tip: Mix just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want these to be perfectly tender!
Shape the Dough:
Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Personal Tip: Chilling the dough is crucial—it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances the flavors.
Bake the Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Personal Tip: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking. Shortbread can go from golden to overbaked quickly, so pull them out as soon as the edges start to color.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
Personal Tip: If you want a little extra sparkle, sprinkle the tops with sugar as soon as they come out of the oven.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 90, Protein: 1g, Carbohydrates: 11g, Sugars: 4g, Total Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Sodium: 35mg, Fiber: 0g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing Culinary Lavender: Make sure to use culinary lavender, which is safe for consumption. You can find it in specialty food stores or online.
- Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane grater to zest lemons easily. Only zest the yellow part of the lemon skin, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough.
- Shaping the Dough: For uniform cookies, shape the dough into a log and chill it before slicing. This helps maintain the round shape and ensures even baking.
- Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Serving Suggestions: These cookies pair well with a cup of tea or lemonade. They are also great for sharing at picnics or afternoon tea parties.
- Decorative Touches: For an added touch, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking. This adds a slight crunch and enhances their appearance.
- Batch Baking: Double the recipe and freeze the unbaked dough logs. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake as directed. This is a time-saving tip for busy schedules.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor profile. Mixing citrus zest can also create unique and refreshing taste combinations.
- Budget-Friendly Tips: Purchase lemons and lavender in bulk when they are in season and more affordable. You can also dry your own lavender at home to save money.
Real Butter vs. Margarine
When it comes to baking, especially something as delicate as shortbread, the choice between real butter and margarine can make a significant difference. Butter, which is made from cream, has a rich, natural flavor that enhances the taste of baked goods. It also contains the right amount of fat to create a tender, flaky texture. Margarine, on the other hand, is often made from vegetable oils and can have a higher water content, which may result in a less desirable texture in cookies. While margarine might be lower in saturated fats, it can also contain trans fats, which are less healthy. Real butter, though higher in saturated fat, offers a superior flavor and consistency, making it the better choice for traditional recipes like shortbread. In short, if you’re aiming for the best taste and texture, stick with real butter—it’s what gives these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality.