While grabbing some herbs in my garden one sunny afternoon, I stumbled upon a lovely patch of lavender, and an idea sparked in my head. Why not infuse these fragrant blooms into a classic comfort food? Enter Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies—where nostalgia meets a fresh, floral twist. These delightful treats not only boast the perfect balance of chewy and crispy textures but also come together in a flash, making them an ideal choice for both busy bakers and leisurely afternoons. With every bite, the aromatic lavender meets the richness of chocolate, creating a cookie experience that’s truly unique. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that just might become your new favorite!
Why Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Unique Flavor Fusion: These cookies brilliantly combine aromatic lavender with the beloved taste of semisweet chocolate, offering a delightful twist that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick and Simple: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is easy to follow, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time!
Versatile Indulgence: Perfect for tea parties or cozy evenings, they pair beautifully with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
Thoughtful Storage: Keep them fresh in an airtight container for a week, ensuring you can enjoy this treat whenever cravings hit.
If you love experimenting with flavors, check out our Nutella Marshmallow Cookies for another fun twist!
Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients
- For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Structure and texture are key; spooning and leveling is a must for accuracy.
• Baking powder – This leavening agent helps cookies rise for that airy feel; don’t skip it!
• Salted butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture to your cookies; unsalted can be used with a pinch of added salt if preferred.
• Light brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and chewiness, thanks to its molasses content.
• Granulated white sugar – Sweetness enhancer; you can reduce this if you prefer a less sweet cookie.
• Egg (room temperature) – Provides moisture and binding; having it at room temperature ensures better mixing.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of chocolate beautifully; feel free to use imitation if you’re out of the real deal.
• Lavender extract – This distinctive floral ingredient is what makes these Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies special; opt for store-bought or homemade for freshness.
• Semisweet chocolate chips – For that rich chocolate flavor; swap with dark chocolate for something deeper.
• Lavender chocolate chips – Double up on the floral notes; or replace with more semisweet chips if you can’t find these.
• Extra chocolate chips (optional) – Perfect for garnishing or when you just want more chocolate bliss.
• Flaky sea salt (optional) – Sprinkle this on top for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
With just these delightful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating scrumptious Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready to receive your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies. This step is crucial for preventing sticking, so take your time to spread the paper flat for smooth baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This dry base is the heart of your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies, providing structure and texture. Continue whisking until the mixture is airy and well combined, then set it aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened salted butter with ¾ cup light brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, achieving a pale color. This creaming process is key to ensuring your cookies are soft and chewy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon lavender extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Beat these ingredients together for about 1-2 minutes until they’re well incorporated and pale in color. This will infuse your dough with a lovely lavender aroma and create the perfect cookie base.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture from Step 2 into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the dough to remain tender for your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no visible flour streaks but the dough is still chunky.
Step 6: Fold in Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips and ½ cup lavender chocolate chips using a spatula. This step ensures the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them up, adding delightful bursts of chocolate and floral flavor to each cookie.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and place it on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Each mound should look round and generous, as these Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies will spread slightly while baking, creating a lovely shape and texture.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges. The centers should still look slightly soft, which is perfect for that chewy cookie experience.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle extra chocolate chips and flaky sea salt over the warm cookies. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes, allowing them to set before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Ahead Options
These Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover it well with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just transfer the frozen dough balls directly onto a baking sheet—no need to thaw! To maintain quality, bake the cookies straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time, and you’ll enjoy these delightful treats just as fresh and fragrant as if you made them on the spot!
Storage Tips for Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will preserve their delightful chewiness and prevents them from drying out.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies for up to three months. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, reheat them in the oven or microwave. Microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for a couple of minutes. This way, you can savor that fresh-baked goodness anytime!
Expert Tips for Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Measure Flour Accurately: Ensure to spoon and level the flour for accurate measurements to avoid dense cookies; a simple stratagem can make all the difference in your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies.
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Chill the Dough: For deeper flavor, consider chilling the dough overnight. Just remember that you might need to add a minute to the baking time for perfectly baked cookies!
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Mix Well, But Not Too Much: Combine your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the delightful, chewy texture we desire.
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Cookie Shape Matters: Use a cookie cutter to gently reshape cookies immediately after baking for that perfect look. Presentation counts when you’re serving these Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies!
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to substitute with different chocolate types or extracts based on your preference, transforming a classic into your personal masterpiece!
What to Serve with Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Indulging in these unique cookies opens up a world of delightful pairings perfect for any occasion.
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Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot notes in this tea complement the floral lavender beautifully, creating a harmonious experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a mouthwatering contrast of textures and temperatures.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries add a refreshing, tart counterpoint to the rich sweetness of the cookies.
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Chai Latte: The spices in chai can enhance the floral notes in the cookies, making for a cozy combination on a chilly afternoon.
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Mint Chocolate Milkshake: Treat yourself to a creamy, chocolatey drink that mirrors the cookie’s chocolate chips, while mint enhances the overall refreshment.
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Lemon Zest Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this citrusy cream brings brightness that offsets the cookies’ richness in every heavenly bite.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, almonds, and honey can elevate your cookie experience into a delightful snack board.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Fizz with a hint of lemon refreshes the palate while creating a whimsical pairing with these delightful cookies.
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White Chocolate Mocha: This sweet and creamy coffee drink mirrors the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth chocolate experience while adding a coffee kick.
Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel like getting creative? Customize these cookies to match your taste buds and enjoy new flavor experiences!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter for a vegan twist. This gives a unique richness while keeping it free of dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This keeps the cookie texture intact, allowing everyone to enjoy your baking without gluten.
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. The nuts will complement the floral aroma beautifully for an added layer of taste.
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Herbal Infusion: Toss in some finely chopped rosemary or lemon zest along with the lavender for an herbaceous touch that elevates the classic flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising warmth. It’s an unexpected delight that pairs well with lavender and chocolate.
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Tropical Twist: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar and add ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical vibe. Perfect for a summer cookie!
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Extra Chocolate: Replace half of the semisweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast. The creamy notes will elevate those lavender flavors even more.
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Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle some caramel sauce on top for a sweet finish. The gooey caramel will add a new dimension to these already decadent cookies.
For more delightful cookies, check out our Oatmeal Protein Cookies or try the Soft Pumpkin Cookies for a seasonal twist!
Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lavender for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting lavender, look for vibrant, fresh blooms with no signs of browning or wilting. The color should be a rich purple, and you should be able to smell its fragrant aroma. Harvesting on a sunny day ensures optimal flavor, and cutting stems in the morning when the oils are at their peak is often recommended.
What’s the best way to store Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Very important! Store your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies, first allow them to cool completely. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for a couple of minutes.
What if my cookies turn out too flat or too thick?
Very common issue! If your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out too flat, check if you might have over-creamed the butter or added too much liquid. Conversely, if they’re too thick, your flour measurement may be a bit off, so spooning and leveling flour is a must! For a quick fix, try chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these cookies contain chocolate, which is toxic to dogs and should be kept well out of their reach. Always be cautious about sharing baked goods with pets. If you’re looking for pet-friendly treats, consider making some with pumpkin and peanut butter instead!
Can I make adjustments for dietary allergies?
Very doable! If you’re looking to make your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies allergy-friendly, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or use oat flour for a chewy texture. For dairy-free options, swap butter for coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative. Just ensure that your chocolate chips are also dairy-free if you’re looking for a vegan-friendly version!
These FAQs should help you navigate your baking adventure. Happy baking with your Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Lavender Chocolate Chip Cookies for a Delicious Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the light brown and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lavender extract to the butter mixture, and beat until well incorporated.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Gently fold in the semisweet and lavender chocolate chips.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 3 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes or until lightly golden brown, letting centers remain slightly soft.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips and flaky sea salt on top if desired. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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