Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lavender adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that transforms ordinary cookies into something extraordinary. The combination of vanilla and lavender creates a uniquely fragrant treat that’s light and buttery. This recipe is simple, uses common ingredients, and yields about 10 perfectly tender cookies. The optional powdered sugar dusting adds a lovely finishing touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup culinary lavender, finely chopped
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy and pale.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and finely chopped lavender.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on baking sheets with space between them.
Gently press each ball down to form a disc shape.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 10 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 15-20 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 36 minutes

Variations

Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist that complements the lavender.
Mix in white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for texture and flavor.
Substitute part of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier taste.
Use honey instead of granulated sugar for a richer sweetness.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in a warm oven for a freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender?

Dried culinary lavender is recommended for flavor and texture; fresh lavender can be more pungent and less predictable.

How finely should the lavender be chopped?

Chop finely to avoid large pieces that might overpower the cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

No, they use all-purpose flour. Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough before baking and avoid using too much butter.

Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Yes, adjust baking time accordingly—larger cookies need more time, smaller cookies less.

What if I don’t have culinary lavender?

You can omit it or substitute with a small amount of dried rose petals or lavender extract.

Can I add frosting?

A light lemon glaze pairs nicely without overpowering the lavender.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Lavender Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the delicate floral aroma of lavender with classic buttery sweetness. Perfect for elevating your cookie game, these easy-to-make cookies are ideal for special occasions, gifts, or simply to enjoy with tea. Their unique flavor and tender texture will have you coming back for more.