Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Lemon and lavender might sound like an unusual combination, but they complement each other beautifully. The citrusy zing of lemon brightens the subtle floral notes of lavender, creating a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile. The buttery cookies have a crisp yet tender texture, while the filling is silky smooth, tying everything together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to follow while yielding results that look and taste like they came straight from a high-end bakery.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

• A Unique Flavor Combination – Lemon and lavender bring a delightful contrast of citrus and floral notes, making these cookies a refined and unexpected treat.

• Buttery and Tender Texture – The cookies have a perfect balance of crisp edges and a melt-in-your-mouth interior.

• Perfect for Special Occasions – These elegant sandwich cookies are a hit at tea parties, bridal showers, and celebrations.

• Customizable Filling Options – While we’re using a luscious lemon cream, you can experiment with other fillings like white chocolate ganache or honey buttercream.

• Easy to Make – The dough is simple to prepare, and the assembly is straightforward, even for beginner bakers.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Assembly Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Yield: 18 sandwich cookies

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 9g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender, finely ground

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Flavoring

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully combined. Then, stir in the finely ground dried lavender, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough instead of tender.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (or any preferred shape), cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just slightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

While the cookies are cooling, make the lemon buttercream filling. Beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, pipe or spread a generous amount of the lemon buttercream filling onto the flat side of half of the cookies. Place the remaining cookies on top, pressing gently to create a sandwich.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Your Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Ingredient Background

Lemon and lavender are the stars of this recipe, each bringing unique flavors and aromas that make these cookies extraordinary. Let’s take a closer look at these key ingredients.

Lemon has been a beloved ingredient in baking for centuries. Originating in South Asia, lemons are packed with bright, tangy flavors that enhance both sweet and savory dishes. The zest, in particular, is full of natural oils that provide an intense citrus aroma, making it a fantastic addition to cookies, cakes, and pastries. The acidity in lemon juice also helps balance sweetness, preventing baked goods from becoming overly rich.

Lavender, a beautiful and fragrant herb, has long been used in both culinary and medicinal applications. While lavender is most commonly associated with perfumes and aromatherapy, culinary lavender is a more subtle variety that adds a delicate floral essence to dishes. The key to using lavender in baking is moderation—too much can make your treats taste soapy. Finely grinding dried culinary lavender ensures that it blends well into the cookie dough, releasing its flavor gently as the cookies bake.

Butter is another crucial ingredient in these cookies, giving them a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. High-quality unsalted butter ensures that the cookies remain soft yet crisp around the edges. Combined with flour and sugar, it creates a delicate structure that allows the flavors of lemon and lavender to shine.

Technique Tips for Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

Baking is both an art and a science, and getting the perfect Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure success.

One of the most important steps is chilling the dough. Since this dough contains butter, chilling it for at least 30 minutes prevents it from spreading too much in the oven. If you have time, you can even refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, which allows the flavors to develop even more. When rolling out the dough, use a lightly floured surface and a rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough gets too soft while handling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Another essential tip is using the right type of lavender. Make sure you are using culinary lavender, not the variety meant for potpourri or essential oils. Culinary lavender has a milder, more pleasant taste that complements baked goods rather than overpowering them. To evenly distribute its flavor, grind the dried lavender using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle before adding it to the dough. This ensures that no large, overpowering bits end up in your cookies.

For the filling, achieving the perfect consistency is key. If your buttercream is too thick, add a tiny bit more lemon juice. If it’s too runny, gradually mix in more powdered sugar. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped but soft enough to spread easily. For the best results, use room-temperature butter, as cold butter won’t blend smoothly, and melted butter will make the frosting too runny.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

If you want to get creative with these Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies, there are plenty of ways to switch up their presentation while keeping the delicious flavors intact.

For a more elegant look, you can use a fluted or scalloped cookie cutter instead of a plain round one. This adds a touch of sophistication and makes them look bakery-worthy. You can also lightly dust the top of each assembled sandwich cookie with powdered sugar or edible gold dust for a fancy finish.

Another idea is to dip half of each sandwich cookie in melted white chocolate. The white chocolate pairs beautifully with the lemon and lavender flavors while adding a touch of richness. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a tiny bit of crushed dried lavender or lemon zest on top for added decoration.

If you’re making these cookies for a special event, consider tying them together in pairs with a ribbon or placing them in decorative boxes as edible gifts. These cookies make fantastic homemade presents for birthdays, weddings, or holidays.

Freezing and Storing Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies

If you want to prepare these cookies in advance, they store and freeze beautifully with the right technique.

For short-term storage, place the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, you may want to refrigerate them to keep the filling firm. However, be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and texture.

If you’d like to freeze the cookies, the best approach is to freeze the individual cookie halves before assembling them. After baking, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

For freezing assembled sandwich cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about an hour. The texture remains just as delicious as when they were freshly made.

Healthier Twist Ideas

While these cookies are already a delightful treat, you can make a few adjustments to create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

For a lower-sugar alternative, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling by 25%. You can also replace half of the granulated sugar with coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index. The natural caramel-like sweetness of coconut sugar complements the floral lavender beautifully.

If you want to add some extra fiber and nutrients, swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour. This keeps the cookies tender while boosting their nutritional value. You can also add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed to the dough for added fiber and healthy fats.

To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. For the filling, use dairy-free butter and a splash of coconut milk to achieve the right consistency. These modifications make the cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions while keeping them just as delicious.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations.

For an afternoon tea party, serve these cookies on a tiered platter alongside scones, macarons, and a selection of teas. The floral and citrus flavors pair beautifully with Earl Grey, chamomile, or a light jasmine green tea. Add some fresh fruit like raspberries and blueberries to complement the cookies’ bright flavors.

At bridal showers or baby showers, these cookies can be decorated with pastel-colored edible decorations to match the theme. Consider presenting them in individual treat bags with personalized labels for guests to take home as party favors.

For a spring or summer picnic, pack these cookies in a tin along with some fresh lemonade or lavender-infused iced tea. The light, refreshing flavors make them a perfect warm-weather treat that everyone will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender?

   • Dried culinary lavender is recommended because it has a more concentrated flavor. If using fresh, double the amount and chop it finely.

2. What if I don’t have a spice grinder for the lavender?

   • You can crush it with a mortar and pestle or finely chop it with a knife.

3. Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

   • Yes! The unassembled cookies can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for later use.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

   • Chilling the dough before rolling and baking helps keep the cookies from spreading.

5. Can I use a different filling?

   • Absolutely! Try white chocolate ganache, honey buttercream, or even a raspberry jam filling.

6. Are these cookies gluten-free?

   • Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

7. How strong is the lavender flavor?

   • It’s subtle and well-balanced with the lemon. If you prefer a milder taste, use less lavender.

8. Can I color the filling?

   • Yes! A drop of natural purple food coloring will give it a lovely pastel hue.

9. How do I make these cookies softer?

   • Bake them for a minute less to keep them extra tender.

10. Do they taste good with honey?

• Yes! A drizzle of honey in the filling adds extra floral sweetness.

Conclusion

These Lemon Lavender Sandwich Cookies are a delightful balance of citrusy brightness and floral elegance. Whether you’re baking them for a special event or just treating yourself, their unique flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them truly unforgettable. Try them today and experience the perfect harmony of lemon and lavender in every bite!