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Delicate Lavender Honey Shortbread Cookies

lavender honey shortbread cookies - featured image

Tender, subtly floral shortbread cookies flavored with lavender and honey, perfect for Mother’s Day gifts or a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon culinary grade dried lavender buds, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons honey (preferably mild-flavored like clover or wildflower)
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large bowl, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with ½ cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons honey and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined and smooth.
  4. Incorporate 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese if using, for extra softness.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon crushed lavender buds, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a couple of times to form a smooth ball. Chill for 10 minutes if dough is too sticky.
  8. Shape the cookies by rolling dough to ¼ inch thickness and cutting with cookie cutters, or form small balls and flatten slightly with palm or fork.
  9. Place cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  10. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges turn soft golden color but centers remain pale.
  11. Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use culinary grade dried lavender buds to avoid bitterness. Powdered sugar is key for a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Avoid overmixing dough to prevent toughness. Chilling dough helps maintain lavender flavor and prevents spreading. Watch oven closely to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: lavender honey cookies, shortbread cookies, Mother's Day gifts, floral cookies, easy baking, homemade cookies