In a world where the classic sugar cookie reigns supreme, I was inspired to elevate this beloved treat into a whimsical dessert that melds nostalgia with unexpected flavors. I wanted to capture the essence of childhood sweetness while adding a touch of sophistication that only chocolate and lavender could provide. The result? A delightful chocolate-infused old-fashioned sugar cookie adorned with a delicate lavender glaze. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of rich chocolate, comforting vanilla, and the fragrant whisper of lavender, transporting you to a serene garden in full bloom.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate-Infused Sugar Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Lavender Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
To begin this enchanting journey, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside as it will serve as the foundation of our cookies, creating a rich and tender base.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, ensuring that your cookies will have the perfect texture.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, allowing its comforting aroma to fill your kitchen.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to preserve that delightful tenderness in our cookies.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cookies cool, prepare the lavender glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and lavender buds over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the lavender to infuse its lovely flavor into the milk. Remove from heat and strain out the lavender buds, returning the infused milk to a bowl.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the infused milk, whisking until smooth and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the lavender glaze over each cookie using a spoon or a piping bag for a more artistic touch. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
These chocolate-infused old-fashioned sugar cookies not only look stunning with their elegant lavender glaze but also deliver a delightful experience for your taste buds. Each bite is a celebration of childhood memories, reimagined in a sophisticated way. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, and let the flavors transport you to a serene afternoon tea in a blooming garden.