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Perfect Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies Recipe with Edible Gold Dust

lemon lavender shortbread cookies - featured image

Delicate shortbread cookies with bright lemon zest, soothing culinary lavender, and a magical shimmer of edible gold dust. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon finely ground culinary lavender (food-grade)
  • Zest of 2 medium lemons
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • A pinch of edible gold dust

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the lemon zest and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon finely ground culinary lavender, and ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If dough is crumbly, add cold water 1 teaspoon at a time until it holds.
  6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Alternatively, shape into a log and chill for 30 minutes, then slice into rounds.
  7. Cut dough into preferred shapes and place about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are very pale golden and centers are firm but tender. Avoid browning too much.
  9. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Brush cookies lightly with a tiny bit of water or clear piping gel and dust with edible gold dust using a soft brush.
  11. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Notes

Do not overwork the dough to avoid tough cookies. Use softened, not melted, butter for a tender crumb. Chill dough if kitchen is warm to prevent spreading. Watch oven closely to avoid browning. Apply gold dust sparingly with a dry, soft brush. Dough can be chilled up to 48 hours before baking. Gluten-free and vegan substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

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