Lavender lemon sandwich cookies are a delicious dessert that combines the calming flavor of lavender with the bright, zesty taste of lemon. These cookies are soft, buttery, and have a refreshing citrus kick.

Each bite feels light and fresh, almost like springtime in cookie form. They’re a great choice for a tea party, a thoughtful gift, or just to enjoy whenever you want something sweet and unique.

What Are Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies?

Lavender lemon sandwich cookies are delicate, buttery treats made by sandwiching a creamy filling between two lavender-infused shortbread cookies. The lavender adds a subtle floral note that pairs beautifully with the zesty brightness of lemon. The filling, often a tangy lemon buttercream or cream cheese frosting, adds richness and rounds out the flavors.

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning with their pale purple and yellow hues, making them perfect for special occasions or to elevate your everyday snacking.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender, finely ground

For the lemon filling:

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of one lemon
A pinch of salt

Equipment

To make these cookies, I find that a few key tools can simplify the process:

A mixing bowl and an electric mixer for creaming the butter and sugar.
A food processor or mortar and pestle for grinding the lavender.
A rolling pin and cookie cutters to shape the dough.
Baking sheets lined with parchment paper to ensure even baking.
A piping bag for neatly applying the lemon filling.

Instructions

Prepare the lavender dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, vanilla extract, and ground lavender, mixing until a soft dough forms. The lavender’s floral aroma will become apparent as the dough comes together, giving you a preview of the final cookies.
Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and ensuring the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Roll and cut the cookies: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes, keeping in mind that each cookie will need a matching pair for sandwiching.
Bake the cookies: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the cookies on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the filling.
Make the lemon filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
Assemble the cookies: Using a piping bag or a spoon, spread a generous amount of the lemon filling onto one cookie. Place another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Gently press to ensure the filling spreads evenly to the edges.
Enjoy and share: These cookies are ready to enjoy immediately or can be stored for later. Their floral and citrus flavors truly shine when shared with loved ones.

Variations

Sometimes, experimenting with ingredients can lead to delightful surprises. If you’re not a fan of lavender, rosemary can be an interesting alternative. It’s similarly floral but offers a slightly herbaceous twist. Alternatively, you could skip the lavender altogether and use a bit of vanilla bean or almond extract in the cookie dough for a more classic flavor.

For the filling, a cream cheese-based lemon frosting can add a tangy richness that pairs wonderfully with the buttery cookies. If you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream for the filling. The possibilities are endless, and each version offers a unique take on this delightful recipe.

How to Store Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies

Storage plays a big role in keeping these cookies fresh and flavorful. I’ve found that they stay best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, they can be refrigerated for up to a week.

For longer storage, the cookies can be frozen either assembled or as separate components for up to a month. Just make sure to let them thaw completely before serving to enjoy their full flavor.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure they turn out beautifully:

Use high-quality dried culinary lavender for the best flavor. Overly strong or bitter lavender can overpower the delicate balance of the cookies.
Be careful not to overbake the cookies. They should remain pale with slightly golden edges for a tender texture.
Zest the lemon just before adding it to the filling to capture the maximum citrus oils and flavor.
Let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling. Warm cookies can cause the buttercream to melt and become messy.

Common Questions About Lavender Lemon Sandwich Cookies

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender? Yes, fresh lavender can be used, but the quantity should be adjusted. Since fresh lavender is more potent, use about half the amount specified for dried lavender. Make sure it’s finely chopped to distribute the flavor evenly.
Is there a substitute for culinary lavender? If lavender isn’t your thing, rosemary or even a touch of edible rose petals can be used as substitutes. Vanilla bean paste is another great option for a floral yet simple twist.
Why is my dough too sticky to roll out? Sticky dough usually means it hasn’t been chilled long enough. Popping the dough back into the fridge for an additional 15-20 minutes should solve the issue. Alternatively, you can lightly dust the rolling surface with flour.
Can I make the cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! The cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance or frozen for several weeks. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container, filling them closer to serving time.

Conclusion

Lavender lemon sandwich cookies bring a little bit of elegance and creativity into the kitchen. They’re a wonderful way to experiment with floral and citrus flavors, creating something that feels both indulgent and unique.

With their delicate aroma, buttery texture, and creamy filling, they’re sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether shared with friends over tea or enjoyed as a solo treat, these cookies always leave a lasting impression.