There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen. I remember my grandmother, with her gentle hands and warm smile, would often whip up sponge drops on sunny afternoons. These delicate cookies were a staple in our family, but I decided to give them a modern twist with the bright flavor of lemon and the floral notes of lavender. These Whimsical Lemon Lavender Sponge Drops are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat that beckons memories of warm hugs and shared laughter.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside; it will be the foundation of our light and airy sponge drops.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The air incorporated into the butter will give your sponge drops their delightful texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The bright citrus will create a refreshing contrast to the floral lavender.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sponge-like consistency. Finally, sprinkle in the culinary lavender buds, folding them into the batter until evenly distributed.
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These little drops will spread out as they bake, creating lovely, delicate cookies.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers spring back when gently touched. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
As you bite into these Whimsical Lemon Lavender Sponge Drops, let the memories of family gatherings and sunny days envelop you. Each bite is a reminder that comfort can come in the form of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Enjoy these treats with a cup of tea or share them with loved ones to create new cherished moments.