Lavender Shortbread (Akasha's)

Jacquie*'s Note:

I found this in the Los Angeles Times Food Section. It sounds terrific. The recipe originated from the Akasha Restaurant in Culver City. Lavender blossoms can be found at Penzey's Spices in Torrance. (mail order too) Time does not include 2 hours chilling time.

• Total Time: 43 mins
• Prep Time: 35 mins
• Cook Time: 8 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 36

Yield: 3.0 dozen

• ½ lb butter (2 sticks)
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar , plus additional for dusting (loosely packed or 4 oz)
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender blossoms
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups flour

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using a hand mixer, cream the butter with the sea salt, powdered sugar and lavender until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla and beat until combined, about 10 seconds. Fold in the flour by hand, mixing lightly just until incorporated and being careful not to over-mix.
3. Remove the dough from the bowl and form it into a log 9 inches long and 2 inches thick. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until firm enough to slice.
4. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Unwrap the log, and cut into one-fourth-inch slices. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until set (the cookies should not color).
5. Cool the cookies (still on the pans) on a rack. Then dust lightly with powdered sugar. They will keep for a few days in a container.