Prep Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Yield: Makes 2 dozen.

These bee balm cookies have an aromatic scent that is pleasing to the nose and exciting to the taste buds.

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Ingredients

>> 1/2 cup salted butter (room temp., vegan butter optional)
>> 1/2 cup confectioner’s (icing) sugar
>> 1 cup flour
>> 4 to 5 tbsp chopped fresh or dried bee balm flowers and leaves
>> 4 tsp fresh orange zest

Instructions

In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, crushed flowers and leaves, fresh orange zest, and sugar until well mixed. Add the flour and mix well. You may need to use your hands for the final part of mixing. Be sure not to overwork the dough after the flour has been added. Once the dough is smooth and coming together, roll it into a cylinder shape. Wrap tightly in parchment paper and chill for about 2 hours.

Once chilled, slice about 1/4" thick. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 1" apart.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes on a rack placed in the top third of your oven. If your oven is on the hot side, be sure to check the cookies after 6 or 7 minutes to make sure they are not burning.

Wild Edibles in Recipe: Wild Bee Balm

Wild Fungi in Recipe:

Edible Trees and Shrubs in Recipe:

Recipe Category: Desserts and Snacks