Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies

Name: Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender, crushed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar for dusting; Lavender flowers (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes

I love baking, and these Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies hold a special place in my heart. The delicate floral aroma combined with the rich vanilla flavor makes each bite feel like a warm hug. I often make these cookies for special occasions, and they never fail to impress my friends and family. They’re not just beautiful to look at; they’re also incredibly tasty and perfect with a cup of tea. It’s such a joy to see the smiles they bring, especially when they're paired with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:46:28.178Z

As I experimented with flavors, the idea of adding lavender to cookies seemed so unique and intriguing. I adjusted the sweetness and balanced it with a touch of vanilla, and the results were heavenly! These cookies are not only visually appealing, shaped like hearts, but the aroma while baking transforms the kitchen into a cozy paradise.

I found that using culinary-grade lavender made a significant difference in flavor, elevating the cookies even more. When cooled, I recommend decorating them with a touch of icing or powdered sugar for a final flourish that adds both visual appeal and a sweet crunch!

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Delicate floral notes balanced perfectly with smooth vanilla flavors
Beautiful heart shape makes them perfect for gifting
A delightful twist that pleases the palate and the senses

      

The Role of Lavender

Lavender is not just a beautiful flower; it plays a crucial role in flavoring these cookies. The culinary lavender used in this recipe should be fresh and food-grade, as its essential oils impart a serene floral note that complements the vanilla beautifully. For the best results, I recommend crushing the dried lavender before adding it to the dough, which helps release its aromatic oils, enriching each bite with its unique perfume.

When incorporating lavender, it's essential to avoid overpowering the cookies. Start with the suggested measurement, as too much can result in a soapy aftertaste. If you're unsure about your taste preference, consider starting with just one teaspoon and increasing gradually in future batches. This careful balance ensures that the cookies remain pleasant to the palate without overshadowing the comforting vanilla flavor.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure uniform baking. This thickness allows the cookies to achieve a delicate crunch while maintaining a soft interior. Use flour to dust the surface and rolling pin, but be careful not to incorporate too much into the dough, as it can alter the texture, making the cookies dry.

Pay attention to the baking time. Each oven varies, but generally, a bake time of 8-10 minutes will yield golden edges while keeping the centers soft. Check for doneness when the edges start turning light golden, as this can indicate that they are ready to be taken out. If you like a chewier cookie, err on the side of underbaking slightly; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender, crushed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Decoration

Powdered sugar for dusting
Lavender flowers (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, crushed lavender, and vanilla extract. Mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Shape and Chill

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills.

Bake the Cookies

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Decorate

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lavender flowers if desired.

Pro Tips

For a more concentrated flavor, you can steep the lavender in the melted butter before mixing it into the dough. Just strain out the lavender before adding the butter to the sugar mixture. Enjoy your baking!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These lavender vanilla heart cookies can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy occasions. After shaping the cookies, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time.

Proper storage is vital for maintaining the cookies' texture. Once baked, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you live in a humid area, consider adding a small piece of bread to the container, which can help prevent the cookies from becoming too soft or chewy.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful afternoon tea experience, serve these cookies alongside a light herbal tea or a creamy Earl Grey. Their subtle floral flavor pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes in many teas. I also enjoy arranging these cookies on a decorative plate, perhaps with a few sprigs of lavender for an elegant presentation.

These heart-shaped cookies make excellent gifts, especially when packaged beautifully. Consider using a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon, which showcases their charm. You might also personalize the gift by including a handwritten note or a small jar of tea that complements the flavors of the cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

It's best to use dried culinary lavender, as fresh lavender can be too strong and may add excess moisture to the dough.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee and are delightful for afternoon gatherings or special occasions.