As the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia and comfort wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. Enter my London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting—an enchanting treat that captures the essence of the beloved tea latte and transforms it into a delightful dessert. With the soothing flavors of Earl Grey tea paired with delicate floral notes of culinary lavender, these cookies offer not just a delicious bite but also a moment of tranquility amid the chaos of daily life. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for those who want a rewarding baking experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them privately with a warm cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress. Ready to unlock the secrets of this lovely British-inspired treat? Let’s dive in!
Why Are London Fog Cookies Irresistible?
Aromatic Experience: The enticing scent of Earl Grey tea and lavender fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Floral Touch: With culinary lavender subtly infused and the creaminess of lavender frosting, you’re in for a unique flavor journey.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats.
Quick & Simple: Even novice bakers can create these cookies—it’s all about simple ingredients and straightforward steps!
Perfect Pairings: Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or make an elegant presentation with edible flowers for a special touch!
Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Ingredients
Discover the delightful components of these enchanting cookies!
For the Cookies
- Earl Grey Tea – Adds a citrusy bergamot flavor; for best results, opt for loose leaf and grind fresh.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; spoon and level for accurate measurement to avoid a cakey texture.
- Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; a crucial ingredient for achieving that tender, fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda – Works in harmony with baking powder to assist in leavening the cookies.
- Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight crunch; use some in the lavender sugar coating.
- Unsalted Butter – Brings tenderness and a creamy mix with sugar; be sure it’s softened to room temperature.
- Egg – Binds ingredients while adding richness; using it at room temperature prevents curdling.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Provides an intense natural vanilla flavor that complements the cookies; preferable over extract.
- Culinary Lavender – Infuses fragrance and flavor; ensure it’s culinary grade or use finely minced fresh lavender sparingly.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Offers creaminess and a tangy note; should be softened for the best blending results.
- Powdered Sugar – Creates a silky-smooth frosting texture; ensures your frosting isn’t grainy.
- Purple Food Coloring (Optional) – Adds a beautiful aesthetic touch to your frosting.
Let these Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting come together in your kitchen, making each bite a taste of blissful tranquility!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting
Step 1: Prepare Lavender Sugar
Begin by grinding 1-2 tablespoons of culinary lavender until it’s finely minced. Combine the ground lavender with ¼ cup of granulated sugar in a small bowl, mixing well until evenly distributed. This fragrant lavender sugar will add a delightful floral note to your Fog Cookies and can be set aside while you make the dough.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in one room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste, mixing until fully incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt, then gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion out the cookie dough and roll each portion into a ball. Roll the dough balls in your prepared lavender sugar, ensuring they’re fully coated for a beautiful finish. Arrange the coated cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently flatten each cookie dough ball with your fingers, then bake them in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Watch for a slight puffing and a slightly crinkled surface—this is your cue to take them out! Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare Frosting
For the lavender frosting, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of unsalted butter until they are smooth and fluffy, roughly 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground lavender, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. If desired, add a few drops of purple food coloring to achieve a lovely lavender hue.
Step 6: Frost Cookies
Once your Fog Cookies are completely cooled, generously spread about 1 tablespoon of the creamy lavender frosting onto each cookie using a butter knife or an offset spatula. Enjoy the delightful combination of floral flavors and creamy frosting, making sure to take a moment to appreciate the aroma of your fresh bakes!
Expert Tips for London Fog Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, well-blended dough, preventing any lumps.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough London Fog Cookies instead of the desired tender texture.
Lavender Quality: Always use culinary-grade lavender for flavoring. Non-culinary lavender can be too strong and even toxic, so shop wisely!
Storage Solutions: To maintain freshness, store cooled cookies in an airtight container. If you have extras, consider freezing unfrosted cookies and frosting them upon thawing.
Gluten-Free Tips: If you want to make gluten-free London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting, be sure to use a good quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.
Perfect Shape: Use a round cookie cutter around the cookies right after baking if you want perfect shapes. This ensures even more beautiful and professional-looking cookies!
Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize these delightful cookies, making each batch uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a safe, delicious alternative. Your loved ones will be none the wiser!
- Citrus Burst: Add lemon zest to the cookie dough for a vibrant, zesty flavor that beautifully complements the lavender.
- Almond Twist: Swap vanilla bean paste for almond extract for a delightful nutty aroma that enriches the cookie experience.
- Creamy Filling: For an indulgent surprise, sandwich your cookies with a layer of lemon curd before frosting.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pistachios into the cookie dough for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the floral notes.
- Lavender Infused: Enhance the lavender flavor by steeping the Earl Grey tea in warm milk before adding it to the dough.
- Decadent Chocolate: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks to add a rich, chocolaty twist and balance out the floral accents.
- Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising spicy note that warms the palate.
These variations ensure that each homemade batch is as cozy as your favorite cup of tea. Try pairing with a sweet treat like Raspberry Cookies Sweet or for something more indulgent, consider Samoa Cookies Homemade. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting
Airtight Container: Store cooled Fog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their softness.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing for best results.
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover lavender frosting, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just re-whip before using to restore its fluffy texture!
Make Ahead Options
These London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their dessert preparations! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. This not only helps save time but also enhances the flavors. Additionally, the lavender sugar can be prepared the night before and kept in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough in the lavender sugar, and bake as directed. For the frosting, it can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a quick whisk before spreading it on cooled cookies. By prepping ahead, you’ll ensure that these delicious Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting are as delightful as ever, all while making your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable!
What to Serve with London Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting
Indulging in these delicate cookies creates the perfect opportunity to build a delightful meal or treat experience around them.
- Earl Grey Tea: This classic pairing enhances the cookies’ flavors, allowing the citrusy bergamot notes to shine alongside the lavender.
- Light Floral Tea: Choose a soothing herbal tea, such as chamomile or jasmine, to complement the cookies’ enchanting floral essence.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast to the cookies’ tender texture and creamy frosting.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries add a refreshing tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies.
For a truly special touch, serve the cookies on a tiered cake stand adorned with edible flowers.
Pairing light fruit or floral drinks can elevate your serving experience, creating a lovely gathering vibe!
- Lemonade or Sparkling Water: With a hint of mint or lavender, these drinks offer a refreshing lift that ties in nicely with the cookies.
- Shortbread Cookies: Enjoy with buttery shortbread for a textural contrast that enhances the overall experience.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate adds indulgence and depth, complementing the floral profile of the Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting.
Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right lavender for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting lavender, make sure to use culinary-grade flowers. Non-culinary lavender can be too potent and may even contain harmful chemicals. Look for lavender sold in spice sections or specialty cooking stores. If you can’t find it, finely minced fresh lavender or a small amount of lavender extract can be a suitable substitute.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Store cooled Fog Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying, as this will revive their soft texture.
Can I freeze Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting?
Absolutely! For freezing, it’s best to freeze the cookies unfrosted. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired!
What if my cookies come out too tough?
If your cookies turned out a bit tougher than expected, the most likely culprit is overmixing the dough. Remember, just mix until the ingredients are incorporated. Another tip is to make sure all your ingredients—especially the butter and egg—are at room temperature for optimal blending, resulting in tender cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! If you have people with gluten sensitivities, you can easily make these Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure any additional ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free. Always check for allergies related to lavender or dairy if serving these treats to others!
How long do I need to wait before frosting the cookies?
For the best results, let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes after baking. This ensures the lavender frosting doesn’t melt off and maintains its lovely texture and appearance. Enjoy the process of frosting once they’re cool—it’s the icing on the cake (or cookie, in this case)!
Indulge in Fog Cookies with Lavender Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grind 1-2 tablespoons of culinary lavender until finely minced. Combine with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a bowl.
- Cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in 1 room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture.
- Portion out the cookie dough using a 2-tablespoon scoop and roll into balls.
- Roll in prepared lavender sugar to coat and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Flatten each dough ball slightly and bake for 9-10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground lavender, mixing until spreadable.
- Add purple food coloring if desired.
- Once cookies are cooled, spread about 1 tablespoon of lavender frosting on each cookie.