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: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Edible lavender flowers, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

I absolutely adore these Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies! The delicate floral notes of lavender combined with the comforting aroma of vanilla create a cookie that’s truly special. Every time I make them, I’m transported to a dreamy garden filled with blooming lavender. They make the perfect gift for friends or a charming treat for any occasion. Plus, the vibrant heart shape adds a touch of love to every bite, making these cookies even more delightful to enjoy or share.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:25:27.807Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining lavender with vanilla in cookies, I was skeptical. Would the flavor pair well? But let me tell you, the first bite completely won me over. The secret is in using culinary-grade lavender, which adds a subtle floral sweetness and elevates the familiar cookie base to a heavenly experience.

While baking, the aroma fills the entire house, and I can't help but feel giddy with excitement. A little tip: don't be shy with the lavender! Just remember to use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way in this delightful recipe!

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Delicate floral notes that transport you to a calming garden
Rich, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee
Eye-catching heart shape that makes them perfect for gifting

      

Understanding Ingredients

The key to achieving the delightful flavor profile of Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies lies in the quality of the lavender. Culinary lavender, specifically Lavandula angustifolia, is preferred for baking due to its sweet, aromatic flavor. Avoid using decorative lavender varieties, as they may be too bitter. When chopping the lavender, ensure it is finely minced; this not only helps in evenly distributing the flavor but also prevents any chewy bits in the final cookies.

Butter plays a crucial role in the texture of these cookies. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dough, ensuring the flavors balance perfectly. As you cream the butter and sugar, the mixture should become light and fluffy, which will lend a rich, tender crumb to your cookies. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting the butter with vegan alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter, but be mindful of melting points that can affect texture.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Chilling the cookie dough before baking is a critical step that I always recommend. This allows the fats to solidify, which helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking. Aim for a chill time of about 15-30 minutes. If you find that the dough is too soft and sticky, adding an extra tablespoon of flour can help in achieving the right consistency without sacrificing the taste.

When it comes time to bake the cookies, keep an eye on your oven's temperature. Variations can lead to uneven baking; therefore, using an oven thermometer can be beneficial. You're looking for the edges to just turn golden, which typically takes about 10 minutes. If the cookies are browning too quickly, rotate your baking sheets halfway through to promote even baking and prevent over-browning.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely chopped
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Edible lavender flowers, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, finely chopped lavender, baking powder, and salt.

Combine and Chill

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined. Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Form Hearts

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Finish and Serve

Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar and garnish with edible lavender flowers if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of lemon zest to the dough. It complements the lavender wonderfully and adds a refreshing twist that your guests will love.

Serving Suggestions

These Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies are a beautiful addition to any tea party or brunch spread. Their delicate flavor pairs wonderfully with herbal teas, especially chamomile or a light Earl Grey. To elevate your serving, consider preparing a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a drizzle effect or serve them alongside a fresh fruit compote that complements their floral notes.

For gifting, I like to package these cookies in heart-shaped tins or clear cellophane bags tied with a pretty ribbon. They not only look lovely but are sure to impress anyone receiving them. A thoughtful note about the ingredients or a story about your lavender garden can make the gift even more special and personal.

Storage Tips

To store your Lavender Vanilla Heart Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should keep well for up to a week, retaining their soft texture. If you prefer crunchier cookies, a glass storage jar works best, as it allows some air circulation. Avoid exposing them to humid environments, as this can lead to unwanted moisture that makes cookies lose their crispness.

If you want to make these cookies in advance, you can freeze the dough before baking. Shape the hearts, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they're perfectly cooked through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lavender from my garden?

Yes, as long as it's culinary-grade and hasn't been treated with chemicals, it's perfect for baking!

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to two months. Just roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic, and then slice and bake when you're ready.

→ What beverage pairs well with these cookies?

These cookies are lovely with a cup of tea, especially Earl Grey or chamomile, as their flavors harmonize beautifully.