almond lavender butter cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to delight your taste buds and dazzle your guests with something uniquely fragrant and buttery, these almond lavender butter cookies are exactly what you need. Combining the delicate floral notes of lavender with the rich earthiness of almonds, these cookies offer a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re enjoying them with your afternoon tea or gifting them during the holidays, almond lavender butter cookies are a charming treat that’s sure to become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of almond lavender butter cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture—from the creamy richness of butter to the gentle floral hint of lavender, and the satisfying crunch of almonds.

• 10 Tablespoons salted butter, room temperature: Using room temperature butter ensures a smooth, fluffy dough that bakes up tender.
• 1 cup powdered sugar plus extra for dusting: Powdered sugar creates a delicate sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: This brings out the nutty, aromatic depth that complements the almonds wonderfully.
• 1 egg: Acts as the binding agent, giving structure while keeping the cookies soft.
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The base providing structure and a gentle chew to the cookies.
• 1 cup sliced, crushed almonds: Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor that’s essential to the cookie’s identity.
• 2 tablespoons edible lavender, finely minced: Imparts a subtle but unmistakable floral note, turning each bite into an aromatic experience.

How to Make almond lavender butter cookies

Step 1: Whip Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer on low speed to combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Gradually increase the speed as they blend together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it aerates the butter, giving the cookies their tender texture.

Step 2: Add Almond Extract and Egg

Once your butter and sugar are whipped to perfection, add in the almond extract and the egg. Continue mixing to fully incorporate these ingredients. The almond extract deepens the nutty flavor, while the egg helps the dough bind and rise properly in the oven.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Add about half of the flour to your wet mixture and stir it in gently with a wooden spoon. Then add the rest of the flour and mix again until fully combined, but avoid overmixing so the cookies stay tender. The flour provides the backbone of your cookies, making sure each bite holds together just right.

Step 4: Fold in Almonds and Lavender

Now for the fun part—fold in the sliced and crushed almonds along with the finely minced edible lavender. The almonds bring a satisfying crunch, while the lavender lends an irresistible floral aroma that makes these almond lavender butter cookies truly special.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Use a spring scoop or spoon about two heaping teaspoons of dough per cookie and place each onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them plenty of space so they can spread slightly without merging. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but still soft. Allow them to cool on a rack, then finish by dusting with extra powdered sugar for a delicate, snowy touch.

How to Serve almond lavender butter cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your almond lavender butter cookies presentation, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. You can also sprinkle a few crushed almonds or a tiny pinch of dried lavender on top for an extra flourish that enhances the texture and aroma.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, especially varieties like Earl Grey or chamomile, which complement the floral notes of the lavender. For coffee lovers, a mild latte or cappuccino works just as well, balancing the sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re sharing almond lavender butter cookies at gatherings, try arranging them on a decorative platter lined with fresh lavender sprigs. For gifts, stack them in a clear jar tied with a ribbon, or pack them alongside small sachets of dried lavender for a charming, fragrant package that friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover almond lavender butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and tender for up to one week. Avoid keeping them in the fridge, as the cold can dry them out and mute the delicate flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature to preserve their buttery softness and lovely lavender aroma.

Reheating

To enjoy almond lavender butter cookies warm, simply pop them in a 300-degree oven for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their texture and enhance the almond and lavender scents, making every bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use dried lavender from the spice aisle?

It’s best to use culinary-grade edible lavender rather than just any dried lavender, which might be treated with chemicals or too coarse. Edible lavender is finely minced and safe to eat, giving the cookies that lovely floral flavor without bitterness.

Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla extract?

While vanilla extract will work in a pinch, almond extract is a key flavor note in these cookies. It enhances the nutty almond crunch and pairs beautifully with the lavender. If you prefer vanilla, consider adding a small amount of almond flour to maintain some nuttiness.

Are almond lavender butter cookies gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, you can try substituting with a gluten-free baking blend, but be aware it may alter the texture slightly.

What’s the best way to crush the almonds?

For perfect texture, slice the almonds thinly before giving them a gentle crush with a rolling pin or by pulsing briefly in a food processor. You don’t want almond dust—aim for small shards that add crunch without overwhelming the dough.

Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?

Absolutely! You can cream the butter and powdered sugar by hand using a wooden spoon or whisk. It just takes a bit more elbow grease, but the result will still be wonderfully tender almond lavender butter cookies.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about almond lavender butter cookies that makes them a perfect cozy indulgence or elegant treat for any occasion. Their delicate floral notes paired with rich almond flavor and buttery texture create a cookie experience that’s simply unforgettable. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making these at home—you might just find a new favorite cookie to share with loved ones and savor yourself.

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