Lavender biscuits

Lavender Cookies – A Fragrant Delicacy Full of History

Lavender cookies are not just a simple snack, but a journey into the world of flavors and culinary traditions. This recipe has its roots in the use of lavender flowers, which have been used over time in various cultures, not only for their aroma but also for their calming properties. Lavender flowers add a sophisticated note and a delicate floral taste, turning each cookie into a memorable experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 20 cookies

Ingredients:
- 250 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 50 g marzipan
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Dried lavender (to taste, about 1-2 tablespoons)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the diced butter and marzipan. Use a spatula or mixer on low speed to combine them until you achieve a creamy consistency. This step is essential as the butter and marzipan will blend perfectly, giving the cookies a soft and moist texture.

2. Adding Wet Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the egg and a pinch of salt. Mix well, ensuring everything is homogeneous.

3. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour over the mixture and add the sugar and dried lavender. Use a spatula to carefully mix everything until the dough becomes homogeneous. Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the cookies tough.

4. Chilling the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor and helps achieve a perfect texture.

5. Rolling Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3-4 mm. Make sure the dough does not stick to the surface by adding more flour if necessary.

6. Creating the Cookies: Sprinkle some lavender flowers over the dough and gently press them to secure. Using a cookie cutter or stencil, carefully press to create beautiful patterns on the cookies. Cut the cookies into desired shapes with a knife or cookie cutters.

7. Baking: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will expand slightly while baking. Preheat the oven to 190°C and bake the cookies for about 10 minutes or until they turn lightly golden at the edges. Be careful, as baking time may vary depending on your oven.

8. Cooling and Serving: Once baked, let the cookies cool on a cooling rack. They will be soft at first but will harden as they cool. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, or even with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical Tips:
- Lavender: Make sure to use culinary lavender that has not been chemically treated. You can find dried lavender in specialty stores or online.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you want a gluten-free version, replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Customization: Experiment with different flavors, such as adding lemon or orange zest for a fresher taste.

Nutritional Benefits:
These cookies are a good source of carbohydrates but should be consumed in moderation due to their sugar and fat content. Lavender has calming properties and may help reduce stress and anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other flavors instead of lavender?
Yes, you can experiment with other edible flowers or flavors, such as rose or vanilla.

2. How can I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Place them in a freezer bag and consume them within 3 months.

So, get ready to bring a touch of elegance and flavor to your kitchen with these lavender cookies. Whether you enjoy them with a warm drink or gift them to loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy!