Description
Delight in these zesty Key Lime Shortbread Cookies, a perfect blend of buttery, tender shortbread infused with fresh key lime juice and zest. These cookies offer a delightful citrus punch balanced by a rich, crumbly texture, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Bring unsalted butter to room temperature and zest your key limes. Measure fresh key lime juice and have all dry ingredients ready to ensure smooth assembly.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process aerates the dough, creating a tender crumb while incorporating the citrus flavors.
- Add Key Lime Juice, Zest, and Vanilla: Mix in the freshly squeezed key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with a bright, zesty punch.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution. Gently fold the dry mixture into the butter mixture without overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Form the Dough and Chill: Gather the dough into a disk, wrap it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut.
- Roll Out and Cut Shapes: Lightly flour your surface and roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut into desired shapes, then place the formed cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake and Cool: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the texture to set perfectly.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and smooth dough texture.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the cookie shape during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Using fresh key lime juice and zest provides the best vibrant citrus flavor.
- Optionally, dust cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.
