Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies

Name: Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

When I stumbled upon the idea of lavender-infused cookies, I was intrigued! The combination of delicate floral notes with vanilla sounded enchanting. I decided to experiment in my kitchen, and the results were nothing short of magical. These Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies not only filled my home with a lovely aroma but also brought a unique twist to the traditional cookie recipe. They are perfect for tea parties, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:10:28.154Z

While preparing these cookies, I wasn't just mixing ingredients; I was blending flavors and emotions. The floral lavender not only contributes to a gorgeous aroma but also offers a calming essence, making the baking process feel therapeutic. I personally recommend steeping the lavender in the butter first to extract the full flavor, resulting in a cookie that truly captures the essence of spring.

As I took the first bite, I was taken straight to a French lavender field. The subtle sweetness of vanilla, combined with the fragrant lavender, created an exquisite balance that I hadn't anticipated. It's a delightful twist on classic cookies that will leave everyone asking for the secret ingredient!

        You'll Love These Cookies Because
        The unique floral flavor of lavender awakens your taste buds.
Irresistibly soft and buttery, these cookies melt in your mouth.
A perfect addition to any gathering or cozy afternoon treat.

      

The Role of Lavender in Baking

Lavender provides a unique flavor profile that can transform a standard cookie recipe into something extraordinary. When using culinary lavender, it’s essential to ensure that it is indeed meant for consumption, as not all lavender varieties are safe to eat. This herb not only adds floral notes but also brings a calming aroma during baking, enhancing the overall experience. The key is to use just the right amount—too much can overwhelm the palate, while a well-measured quantity adds a subtle complexity that keeps your taste buds engaged.

Incorporating lavender involves gentle techniques to extract its flavor effectively. Steeping the dried lavender in warm butter helps release its essential oils, making the infusion fragrant and flavorful. Avoid boiling the butter, as high heat can deteriorate the delicate floral notes, resulting in a bitter taste. Letting the butter cool after steeping is just as important, as this ensures the other ingredients don't cook during mixing, allowing for a perfectly textured dough.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

When preparing the dough, achieving the right consistency is crucial. After mixing the ingredients, the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk, but be cautious not to overdo it, as excess moisture can lead to spreading during baking. On the flip side, if the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little flour when rolling it out, ensuring it adheres to the surface without losing its shape when cut into hearts.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is imperative; it firms up the butter, which helps retain the cookie shapes while baking. If you're crunched for time, a quick 15-minute chill in the freezer can be a good alternative. Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary; aim for golden edges as a visual cue for doneness—this often indicates a soft and buttery texture within. Overbaking can lead to a drier cookie, so it’s better to check a minute early.

Ingredients

Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk

Make sure to use culinary-grade lavender for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Lavender Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the dried lavender and let it steep for about 15 minutes. Strain to remove flowers and let it cool.

Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the lavender-infused butter, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix until combined and the dough forms.

Chill and Shape

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.

Bake

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are gently golden. Let them cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy

Once cooled, serve these delightful cookies with your favorite tea, or package them as gifts!

These cookies are best stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies store beautifully. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature for an hour before serving, ensuring that they maintain their soft texture.

If you have extra dough, you can refrigerate it for up to three days before baking, or freeze it for later use. When ready to bake, thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator, then roll it out and cut into shapes as usual. This makes it convenient for spontaneous baking sessions or when you need an impressive treat for unexpected guests.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your tea party or afternoon coffee, consider pairing these cookies with floral teas like Earl Grey or chamomile, which complement the lavender beautifully. A light drizzle of lemon glaze can also enhance the flavor profile, adding a tangy contrast to the sweetness and floral notes. For a touch of elegance, dust the cooled cookies with a little extra powdered sugar before serving or arrange them with sprigs of fresh lavender for a stunning presentation.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with variations by adding a hint of lemon zest or orange zest when mixing the dough. These citrus notes can brighten the overall flavor and add another layer of complexity. You can also consider using different shapes besides hearts for various occasions; star-shaped cookies, for holidays, allow these delightful treats to shine any time of the year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, but use it sparingly as fresh lavender is more potent. Use about half the quantity.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out.

→ What can I do if I don't have lavender?

You can substitute with other flavors like lemon zest or almond extract for a different twist.