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Lavender Honey Shortbread Cookies
Perfect for gifting and easily adaptable for various dietary needs. Prepare to be amazed!
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This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ cup honey
* 1 teaspoon pure lavender extract (or 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender, finely ground)
* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose blend)
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* Optional: ¼ cup chopped pistachios or other nuts for added texture and flavor
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).** Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Cream together butter and sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the honey and lavender extract until well combined.
3. **Add dry ingredients:** Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the optional chopped nuts if using.
4. **Chill the dough:** Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
5. **Roll and cut:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Place cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary.
7. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Variations:**
**Vegan:** Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the honey with agave nectar or maple syrup. Ensure your lavender extract is vegan-friendly.
**Gluten-Free:** Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of extra flour to achieve the right consistency.
**Citrus Twist:** Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a brighter flavor profile.
**Presentation:**
* Package the cookies in attractive tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbons.
* Add a small sprig of lavender to each package for an extra touch of elegance.
* Include a handwritten card with the recipe or a personalized message.
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