Delicate cookies with a buttery texture and a hint of floral lavender, finished with a crunchy almond note and a sparkling sugar-lavender rim, perfect for tea time.
Prep Time 30 minutesminutes
Cook Time 12 minutesminutes
Total Time 1 hourhour
Serving Size 24cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
1cupunsalted butter, softenedroom temperature, about 65–70°F / 18–21°C
3/4cupgranulated sugarfor the dough
1/4cuphoneymild-flavored honey like clover or wildflower
1largeeggroom temperature
1teaspoonvanilla extract
2 1/2cupsall-purpose flour
1/2teaspoonbaking soda
1/4teaspoonsalt
2tablespoonsdried lavender flowersculinary grade; grind lightly if subtler flavor desired
1/4cupfinely chopped almonds or walnutsoptional for added crunch
For coating
2tablespoonsgranulated sugarfor rolling
1teaspoondried lavenderfor sprinkling
Instructions
Preheat and prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Cream mixture
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup honey until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer).
Add egg and vanilla
Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla until fully combined.
Combine dry ingredients
Whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a separate bowl.
Mix dough
Gradually add the dry mix to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in 2 tablespoons dried lavender and 1/4 cup chopped nuts if using.
Chill dough (optional)
If dough is very soft, refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to firm it up; this helps the cookies keep their shape.
Shape and coat
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Toss each ball in the 2 tablespoons granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon dried lavender.
Bake cookies
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
Cool
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use light-flavored honey to avoid overpowering the lavender. These cookies pair beautifully with tea and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.