Lavender is a well-known and popular flower that can be added to fresh bouquets, grown in gardens and added to various beauty products.  Not only do these flowers look and smell great but they can also be used in cooking!  Lavender cookies are easy to make and they are so delicious that you will want to share them, and this recipe, with everyone you know!  Like a fresh flower delivery, these cookies make a great gift for various occasions and they really do add that special touch.
 
Ingredients:
For the lavender sugar:
– 2 tablespoons fresh lavender flowers OR 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers
– 1 cup extra fine white sugar
 
For the cookies:
– 1 cup PLUS 1 tablespoon all purpose flour
– 1/3 cup lavender sugar
–  a pinch of salt
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 2 and a half tablespoons sweet white wine
– 12 fresh lavender leaves (chopped fine)
 
Instructions:

  • Combine the lavender flowers and sugar to make lavender sugar.
  • Place the lavender sugar in an airtight container (with lid) and store it in a warm, dry place for one to two weeks.
  • Letting the sugar and flowers stand for this amount of time will allow the aromas and flavours to infuse before running the sugar through a sieve to remove the flowers.
  • Preheat our oven to 375 F.
  • You should also get your baking sheets ready so make sure that you line them with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter.
  • Remove 1 tablespoon of the lavender sugar and set it aside to use later.
  • Whisk the flour, salt and remaining sugar together.
  • Add the butter and use your hands to rub it together with the mixture or use a pastry blender if you prefer.
  • Once the butter is completely blended, stir in the lavender leaves and wine.
  • Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes and stir occasionally during this time. This allows the mixture to bond properly.
  • Roll the rough out on a board in a rectangular shape using a rolling pin.
  • The dough should be rolled out to a thickness of approximately 1/8 inch.
  • Cut the dough into strips – each 2 inches in length and about 1 inch wide.
  • Twist each of the strips into a bow and place them on the baking sheet.
  • Once you have them all ready, place them in the oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes.
  • Once you notice the edges start to turn brown, it’s time to remove them from the oven and allow to cool before dusting them with the remaining lavender sugar.

 
Making these cookies is a really easy process but it does require time and patience.  The actual cookie dough preparation and baking is straight forward but the real key is to avoid rushing the lavender sugar making process.  If you don’t allow the sugar to sit for long enough, it will not be able to absorb the aromas properly.  One thing is for sure – they are most definitely well worth the wait!