Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

Every time I take a bite of these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies, I’m transported to a sunny day, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face. These cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that bring a burst of joy with each bite. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering; the bright citrus notes and buttery texture had everyone coming back for more. They are perfect for springtime celebrations or just to brighten up a regular day. Baking these cookies is as much about the experience as it is about the end result. You’ll find that the process of mixing, rolling, and cutting the dough is surprisingly therapeutic, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible. If you’re looking to impress your friends or family, these cookies will do just that!

Recipe Ingredients for Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

The ingredients for Key Lime Shortbread Cookies are simple yet incredibly effective. The star ingredients here are butter and key limes, which work harmoniously to create a cookie that is both rich and refreshing. The cornstarch adds a lightness to the texture, making them melt in your mouth. Together, these ingredients create a balance of flavor and texture that is hard to resist.

• Butter: 3/4 cup (170g), at room temperature. This is the foundation for the cookie’s rich flavor.
• Cornstarch: 1/2 cup (56g). This ingredient helps create that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Confectioners Sugar: 1/2 cup (57g). This sweetens the cookies and contributes to their softness.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/4 cups (150g). The main structure of the cookie comes from this basic ingredient.
• Key Lime Zest: 1 teaspoon (2g). This adds a burst of flavor that makes these cookies stand out.
• Key Lime Juice: 1 1/2 tablespoons (21g). This is the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their tanginess.
• Confectioners Sugar: 3/4 cup (85g) for frosting. This makes the frosting creamy and sweet.
• Butter: 1/4 cup (57g), at room temperature for frosting. This adds richness to the frosting.
• Key Lime Zest: 1 teaspoon (2g) for frosting. Reinforces the key lime flavor in the frosting.
• Key Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon (14g) for frosting. This ties the flavors together in the frosting.

How to Prepare Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

Making these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies is a delightful journey. You’ll find the process enjoyable, from creaming the butter to frosting the cookies. Let’s get started with each step!

1. Begin by creaming the butter, cornstarch, and confectioners sugar together. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is well-combined and smooth, but not fluffy. You want a creamy consistency that will hold the cookie together.
2. Next, slowly add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix just until well-combined; avoid overmixing. You should have a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds its shape when pressed.
3. Add in the key lime zest and key lime juice. Beat the mixture until everything is thoroughly mixed. The dough should become aromatic with the fresh scent of lime, and it will also begin to feel a bit softer.
4. Divide the dough into two equal halves. Roll each half into a log that is about 1 inch in diameter. This helps in achieving uniform slices later on.
5. Wrap each log tightly in waxed paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the dough is firm enough to slice. This chilling step is crucial for the cookies to hold their shape during baking.
6. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). The anticipation of delicious cookies will fill your kitchen!
7. Slice each log into 1/4 inch thick slices. Arrange these slices on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are set but not browned. You’ll want to watch them closely since the cookies will remain pale and won’t develop a golden color.
9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is important to ensure they hold their shape.
10. To make the frosting, cream together the butter and confectioners sugar until fluffy. Add the key lime zest and key lime juice, mixing well until you have a smooth frosting. Spread this frosting generously over the cooled cookies, making them even more delicious.

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to make these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies your own! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Decorative Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles to the frosting for a festive touch, perfect for parties!
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with other citrus zests like orange or lemon for a different twist.
• Shortbread Variations: Try adding a dash of salt in the dough to enhance the flavors.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cookies for an indulgent touch.
• Mini Cookies: Make smaller versions of the cookies for bite-sized treats.

What Goes Well With This Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

These Key Lime Shortbread Cookies pair beautifully with a variety of delightful treats and beverages:

• Tea: A cup of herbal or green tea complements the bright flavors perfectly.
• Coffee: Enjoy them with a smooth cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Fruit Platter: Serve alongside a fresh fruit platter for a refreshing contrast.
• Picnic Basket: These cookies are perfect for summer picnics, adding a sweet touch to your outdoor adventures.
• Celebration Desserts: Include them in dessert trays for celebrations, as they add a vibrant color and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Key Lime Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that beautifully combines buttery richness with a refreshing citrus kick. Their unique flavor is sure to please anyone who takes a bite, making them a perfect addition to any gathering. I encourage you to whip up a batch today and enjoy the smiles they bring. You’ll be happy you did!

Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

These Key Lime Shortbread Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, inviting you to enjoy their buttery texture and refreshing lime flavor. A delightful treat for any occasion that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 48 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3/4 cup Butter at room temperature
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch
• 1/2 cup Confectioners Sugar
• 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Key Lime Zest
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Key Lime Juice
• 3/4 cup Confectioners Sugar
• 1/4 cup Butter at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon Key Lime Zest
• 1 tablespoon Key Lime Juice

Equipment

• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Begin by creaming the butter, cornstarch, and confectioners sugar together. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is well-combined and smooth, but not fluffy. You want a creamy consistency that will hold the cookie together.
2. Next, slowly add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix just until well-combined; avoid overmixing. You should have a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds its shape when pressed.
3. Add in the key lime zest and key lime juice. Beat the mixture until everything is thoroughly mixed. The dough should become aromatic with the fresh scent of lime, and it will also begin to feel a bit softer.
4. Divide the dough into two equal halves. Roll each half into a log that is about 1 inch in diameter. This helps in achieving uniform slices later on.
5. Wrap each log tightly in waxed paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the dough is firm enough to slice. This chilling step is crucial for the cookies to hold their shape during baking.
6. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). The anticipation of delicious cookies will fill your kitchen!
7. Slice each log into 1/4 inch thick slices. Arrange these slices on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they are set but not browned. You’ll want to watch them closely since the cookies will remain pale and won't develop a golden color.
9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is important to ensure they hold their shape.
10. To make the frosting, cream together the butter and confectioners sugar until fluffy. Add the key lime zest and key lime juice, mixing well until you have a smooth frosting. Spread this frosting generously over the cooled cookies, making them even more delicious.

Notes

• Chilling the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.
• Texture Check: When mixing the dough, be sure not to overmix once you add the flour. This will keep the cookies tender and light.
• Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack after baking to ensure they set correctly and maintain their texture.
• Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little more key lime juice to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more confectioners sugar.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.