Name: Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 sticks Salted Butter (1 cup); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; 1 teaspoon Dried Rose Petals, Finely Crushed ((optional)); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour; 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Meyer (or Regular) Lemon Juice; 1-2 drops Blood Orange Juice ((optional))

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There’s something incredibly whimsical about making Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies. Every spring, as the flowers begin to bloom and the sun shines a little brighter, I find myself craving the delicate flavors of lemon and rose. One sunny afternoon, I decided to channel my love for these fragrant blooms into a delightful cookie recipe. As I mixed the ingredients, the sweet scent of butter and sugar filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. The anticipation of biting into a buttery cookie, lightly glazed and adorned with rose petals, had me dreaming of picnics in the park.

With every step, from creaming the butter to rolling out the dough, I could feel my excitement growing. Once baked, these cookies not only tasted divine but also looked stunning, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or a simple afternoon delight. I love serving them on a beautiful platter, their delicate shapes reminding everyone that spring is here!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why This Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies Stands Out

1. Unique Flavor Combination

When you think of cookies, lemon and rose might not be the first flavors that come to mind. However, combining the zesty brightness of lemon with the floral notes of rose creates a truly one-of-a-kind treat. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds, making these cookies a standout at any gathering.

2. Versatile for Any Occasion

The charm of Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies lies in their versatility. Whether you’re hosting a spring tea party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies fit right in. Their elegant presentation makes them a perfect addition to any dessert table.

3. Simple Yet Sophisticated

Don’t let the sophisticated flavor profile fool you; these cookies are surprisingly easy to make. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that impresses everyone. The process of making Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies is not only enjoyable but also satisfying, as you watch them transform from dough to delicious cookies.

4. Perfect for Gifting

Wrap a dozen of these cookies in clear cellophane and tie them with a pretty ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for friends or family. Homemade treats always carry a personal touch, and when they come as beautifully flavored cookies, they are sure to warm hearts.

5. A Taste of Spring

There’s nothing like the taste of spring encapsulated in a cookie! The bright lemon and delicate rose flavors remind us of blooming flowers and sunny days. Each bite is like a mini celebration of the season, making them the perfect springtime treat.

Essential Ingredients for Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies

The ingredients in Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies are chosen not just for their flavors but for how they come together to create a delightful cookie experience. Each component plays a role: the butter brings richness, while the lemon zest adds brightness. Together, they create a cookie that is both light and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter – The foundation of any shortbread cookie, butter contributes to the dough’s rich flavor and crumbly texture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – This sweetener balances the zesty flavor of the lemon zest, adding sweetness to the cookies.
1 tablespoon lemon zest – Packed with citrus oils, this ingredient provides a bright, refreshing flavor that elevates the cookie.
1 teaspoon dried rose petals, finely crushed (optional) – These petals add a delicate floral note and a touch of elegance to the cookies.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhancing the overall flavor, this ingredient rounds out the sweetness of the cookies.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The primary structure of the cookie, flour allows for that characteristic crumbly texture.
2 cups powdered sugar – Used in the glaze, it provides a sweet finish and a smooth coating for the cookies.
2 tablespoons Meyer (or regular) lemon juice – This ingredient adds moisture and a tangy kick to the glaze.
1-2 drops blood orange juice (optional) – For a pop of color and additional flavor in the glaze, this juice can enhance both appearance and taste.

How to Assemble Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies

Making Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies is a delightful process that involves a few simple steps. The best part is that you can easily get your family involved, making it a fun activity. Let’s walk through the steps together.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, lemon zest, and if you’re using them, the dried rose petals, along with the vanilla. Start mixing on low speed and gradually increase to medium. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy; this should take about three to five minutes. You want to ensure that the butter is well incorporated and creamy.
Next, add the flour to the creamed mixture. Start mixing on low speed until combined. You’ll notice the dough starting to form a ball. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
Once your dough is ready, lay two sheets of lightly floured parchment paper on your countertop. Roll out the dough between these sheets to about a quarter-inch thickness. This method helps prevent sticking and makes it easy to lift the dough without tearing it.
Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter or your preferred shape, cut out the cookies. Carefully transfer them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie as they will spread a little while baking.
Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. This step helps firm up the cookies, making them easier to handle. Freeze them for about ten to twenty minutes until they are firm to the touch.
While the cookies are firming up in the freezer, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is key for achieving a perfect bake.
Once the oven is ready, take the cookies out of the freezer and bake them on the middle rack for about twelve to fourteen minutes. You want them to be just lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to a dry cookie!
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes. This resting time helps them set before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. Once cooled completely, they will be ready for glazing.
To prepare the glaze, grab a medium bowl and beat together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and about one tablespoon of water until you achieve a smooth and drizzly consistency. If it’s too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
For an optional touch of color, stir in one or two drops of blood orange juice into your glaze for a lovely pink hue.
Dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze, letting the excess drip off back into the bowl. This creates a beautiful, glossy finish. After glazing, place the cookies on a wire rack.
Finally, decorate the cookies with fresh rose petals or edible flowers, if desired. These final touches make your Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies not just tasty, but also visually stunning.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: It’s crucial to chill the dough before baking. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape and keeps them from spreading too much during baking.
Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This helps in achieving that light, fluffy texture when creaming.
Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to four days to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Testing for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. If unsure, take one out and let it cool to check.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to put your personal twist on Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing!

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different citrus zests like orange or lime for a twist on the classic flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds to the dough for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the lemon.
Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of a glaze, you could melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it on top for a rich touch.
Different Shapes: Use various cookie cutters to create fun shapes for different occasions, such as stars for holidays or flowers for spring.
More Floral Flavors: Consider infusing the butter with other edible flowers for a unique flavor profile.
Storage: These cookies can be frozen. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

What to Pair With Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies

When serving Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies, consider the following pairings for an elevated experience:

Herbal Tea: Pair these cookies with a delicate cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, to complement their floral notes.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal berries or citrus will enhance the refreshing flavor of the cookies.
Cheese Board: Create a light cheese board with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Picnic Delight: These cookies are perfect for picnics, so pack them alongside finger sandwiches and refreshing lemonade.
Spring Gatherings: Serve these cookies at springtime gatherings or brunches for a delightful touch.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and freeze it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator and then continue with the cutting and baking steps.

If you’re not keen on using rose petals, you can simply omit them, or use other edible flowers like violets or lavender. Alternatively, consider adding more citrus zest to enhance the lemon flavor!

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them as they freeze beautifully!

Absolutely! Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies make a lovely gift, especially when beautifully packaged. Wrap them in cellophane with some decorative ribbon for a personal touch that anyone would appreciate.

Conclusion

These Lemon Rose Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that truly capture the essence of spring. They’re easy to make, gorgeous to present, and absolutely delicious. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and treat yourself or your loved ones to these wonderful cookies. You’ll be glad you did!