Glazed Lilac Lemon Shortbread

Are you ready to brighten your day with something sweet? Imagine walking into your kitchen and being welcomed by the captivating aroma of lilac and the refreshing scent of lemon. Together, these ingredients create a flavor combination that’s hard to resist. In this post, I’ll guide you through making lilac lemon shortbread cookies topped with a sweet vanilla glaze and elegant candied lilacs. These treats are not only delicious, but they are also a beautiful addition to any dessert table.

The Magic of Lilac and Lemon

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the main characters of our delightful dessert: lilacs and lemons. Lilacs may be known for their appearance, but they also bring a subtle floral flavor that can elevate many dishes. When paired with the bright tartness of lemons, the result is marvelous. A buttery shortbread cookie infused with the sweetness of sugar, the zest of lemon, and the fragrant notes of lilac all coming together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up your lilac lemon shortbread with vanilla glaze and candied lilacs, gather the following ingredients:

For the lilac lemon Shortbread:

• 14 tablespoons butter, softened

• 1 cup lilac sugar

• 1 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons flour

• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch

• 1 egg yolk

• 1/2 teaspoon dry lemon peel

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 48-80 candied lilacs

  
  

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon corn syrup

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/16 teaspoon salt

  
  
  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Shortbread

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

   
   

   

   
   

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, mix the softened butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.

   

   
   

3. Add Flavor: Stir in the yolk, juice and peel.

   
   

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, arrowroot/cornstarch, and salt together. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

   
   

   

   
   

5. Chill the dough: Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

   
   

   

   
   

6. Roll and cut: After chilling, roll out the dough to 3/8 inch thick and cut into your desired shape. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

   
   
   
   

7. Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 2 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack. Cool completely before adding the glaze.

   
   

Making the Vanilla Glaze

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, water, salt, syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and shiny.

   
   

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   Drizzle Away: Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze in a spiral using a spoon or a piping bag (sometimes I just cut the corner off a sandwich bag). This will flood out and become a circle of glaze on the top.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Top Your Cookies: Before the glaze is dry, place the candied lilacs on top of your glazed cookies for an elegant touch.

   
   

Serve and Enjoy!

With your lilac lemon shortbread cookies now beautifully decorated, it’s time to serve them! These cookies are perfect for tea parties, brunches, or as a charming gift for a friend. They pair wonderfully with herbal tea, and their floral aroma will surely captivate guests. According to a recent survey, 78% of people said they prefer dessert that not only tastes good but looks appealing too.

A Sweet Ending

Making lilac lemon shortbread with vanilla glaze and candied lilacs is a delightful experience. It tantalizes your taste buds and adds a touch of beauty to your dessert collection. This unique treat is perfect for any occasion and brings the essence of spring into your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the enchanting flavors of lilac and lemon, and enjoy baking something special.