Heavenly Matcha Lavender Sugar Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Experience a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies with these heavenly matcha lavender sugar cookies. Combining the earthy flavor of matcha with fragrant culinary lavender, they offer a unique and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Added for tenderness.)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (Check for freshness.)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Optional for a denser cookie.)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (Use light salts for health.)
• 2 tablespoons culinary-grade matcha powder (Can substitute with cocoa powder.)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (Can use margarine or vegan butter.)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (Coconut sugar is a substitute.)
• 1 large egg (For vegan option, use 1/4 cup applesauce.)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (Plain yogurt or buttermilk works too.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (No substitutes recommended.)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (Syrup can be an alternative.)
• 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream (Almond or coconut milk can be substituted.)
• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds (Ensure it’s culinary grade.)
• Light purple gel food coloring (Optional for aesthetic charm.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and matcha powder.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
4. Step 4: Mix in egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until a thick dough forms.
6. Step 6: Form dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and place on baking sheets, flattening them slightly.
7. Step 7: Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
8. Step 8: Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
9. Step 9: To make frosting, heat milk and steep lavender buds for 4-5 minutes, then strain.
10. Step 10: Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy, gradually mixing in lavender-infused milk.
11. Step 11: If desired, mix in gel food coloring and frost cooled cookies.
12. Step 12: Allow frosted cookies to set at room temperature before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, replace the egg with 1/4 cup applesauce and use vegan butter.
• Substitute matcha powder with cocoa powder for a chocolate lavender variation.
• Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender to avoid bitterness.
• Chilling the dough balls before baking helps maintain shape and enhances texture.
• Use light salt to keep the flavor delicate and balanced.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If frosted, keep them in a single layer to prevent smudging. You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months; thaw before frosting. To refresh, let cookies come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the matcha powder with something else?

Yes, you can replace matcha powder with cocoa powder for a chocolate lavender cookie, or omit it altogether for classic lavender sugar cookies.

Is culinary lavender safe to eat?

Only use culinary-grade lavender buds meant for cooking and baking. Non-culinary lavender may contain chemicals or be too bitter for consumption.