Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies: A Delightful Air Fryer Recipe
Shortbread is a classic biscuit, synonymous with tea times and festive occasions in the UK. The buttery texture, combined with subtle flavours, makes it a favourite for many. In this article, we’ll guide you through a novel take on this traditional treat — lemon lavender shortbread cookies, made efficiently with an air fryer!
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air frying has become a popular cooking method in recent years, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying by using significantly less oil. But did you know it’s also great for baking? An air fryer provides an even distribution of heat, ensuring that your cookies are cooked to perfection without the need for a conventional oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 150g Unsalted Butter, softened
- 75g Caster Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
- ½ tbsp Dried Culinary Lavender
- 200g Plain Flour
- Pinch of Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and culinary lavender, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
2. Mix in the Flour
Sift the plain flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Gently mix until the dough forms, being careful not to overwork it as this can impact the tender texture of the shortbread.
3. Chill the Dough
Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for firming the dough, making it easier to slice into uniform cookies.
4. Slice and Prepare for Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Slice the chilled dough into rounds, approximately 1cm thick, and place them on a piece of parchment paper that fits your air fryer basket.
5. Air Fry the Cookies
Gently lay the parchment paper with the cookies in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, checking for a light golden brown colour on the edges. Remember, they will firm up as they cool.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the air fryer and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, your lemon lavender shortbread cookies are ready to be enjoyed!
Tips and Variations
- For an extra burst of citrus, add a dash of lemon juice to the dough.
- If lavender isn't your taste, consider substituting it with poppy seeds or omitting it altogether.
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
Storing Your Shortbread Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough for future baking adventures, making your next batch of cookies even more convenient!
Conclusion
These lemon lavender shortbread cookies are a charming twist on a much-loved classic, with the modern convenience of air frying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and delightfully rewarding. Serve them at your next afternoon tea, and watch them disappear off the plate!