As the winter chill sets in and the festive spirit of Christmas envelops the air, I invite you to join me on a heartwarming culinary journey, one that leads to the creation of my treasured Lavender Shortbread Cookies. These cookies, a staple at my Christmas gatherings, are more than just a dessert; they are a piece of art, a blend of tradition and innovation, and a testament to the magic of the holiday season.
The Backstory: These cookies began as a family recipe, passed down through generations. Each Christmas, my family would gather in the kitchen, the air filled with the aroma of baking and the sound of laughter. It was my grandmother who first introduced the delicate touch of lavender, a tribute to her own mother’s love for the flower. This addition transformed the cookies into something extraordinary, making them a much-anticipated treat every holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- Optional: White chocolate and festive sprinkles for decoration
Instructions:
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Creaming Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the dried lavender, distributing it evenly throughout the dough.
- Shaping the Cookies: Roll the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Cutting the Cookies: Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Baking: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The key is to watch them closely, as shortbread can go from perfect to overdone quickly.
- Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorating (Optional): For a festive touch, melt white chocolate and dip half of each cookie into it, then sprinkle with festive sprinkles. Let them set before serving.
This recipe makes about 24 cookies, each a small token of love and tradition. As you bite into these Lavender Shortbread Cookies, let them transport you to a world of cozy Christmas evenings, filled with the laughter of loved ones and the joy of shared memories. May these cookies add a touch of magic to your holiday season, just as they have to mine for many years. Happy baking and a merry Christmas to you and yours! 🎄🍪✨