Lavender Christmas Cookies
Lavender Christmas cookies can be a delightful addition to your holiday baking. Here's a simple recipe for Lavender Christmas Cookies:
Ingredients:
For the cookie dough:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons dried lavender buds (culinary grade), finely ground
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: Purple food coloring (gel or liquid)
For the lavender glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional dried lavender buds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Lavender Sugar:
In a food processor, combine the granulated sugar and dried lavender buds. Pulse until the lavender is finely ground and incorporated into the sugar.
Cream Butter and Lavender Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and lavender sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, add a few drops of purple food coloring to achieve the desired lavender hue.
Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll and Cut Cookies:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes.
Bake:
Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Decorate:
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top of each cookie. Optionally, sprinkle dried lavender buds on top for decoration.
Let the Glaze Set:
Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing the cookies.
These lavender Christmas cookies have a unique and fragrant flavor that adds a special touch to your holiday festivities. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!
