Key Lime Shortbread Cookies Recipe
If you’re searching for a sweet treat that balances buttery richness with sunny citrus, these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies absolutely deliver! With tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread and the signature zing of key lime, every bite is a little taste of tropical vacation. The aromatic zest, gentle tang, and cloud of powdered sugar on top make these cookies irresistible for any occasion—or just because you need a cheerful pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Key Lime Shortbread Cookies is how simple yet vital each ingredient is. Every addition enhances the cookies’ delicate texture, bright color, or tangy-sweet flavor profile—nothing extra, nothing missing!
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the shortbread its signature tender, melt-away texture and rich flavor—make sure it’s room temperature for the best results.
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Dissolves easily into the dough and creates that soft, sandy crumb that good shortbread is known for.
- Key Lime Juice (2 tablespoons): Fresh key lime juice infuses the cookies with a vibrant citrus tang you won’t forget.
- Key Lime Zest (1 tablespoon): Provides aromatic oils and bright color—zesting right before use captures maximum fragrance.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out the sharpness of the lime with a comforting background note.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The foundation that holds it all together and creates that classic shortbread snap.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness while sharpening all the flavors.
- Extra Powdered Sugar or Lime Zest for Dusting (optional): For a pretty finish and even more zingy lime aroma.
How to Make Key Lime Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by placing your softened, unsalted butter and powdered sugar into a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or strong arm with a wooden spoon to cream them together until fluffy, pale, and completely smooth. This step creates the delicate base for your Key Lime Shortbread Cookies, and it’s worth spending a few minutes getting that perfect light consistency.
Step 2: Add the Key Lime Flavor and Vanilla
Pour in the key lime juice and sprinkle in the zest, then add the vanilla extract. Mix well to distribute that lively citrus fragrance throughout the butter mixture. It’s the secret to a burst of flavor in every bite!
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Mix the salt into your flour, then gradually add this to the wet mix. Work just until a soft dough forms; be careful not to over-mix, as shortbread is best when it’s just barely brought together for the most delicate crumb.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half. You can shape it into logs for traditional rounds or press into discs if you prefer to roll and cut shapes later. Wrap snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour—this step ensures your Key Lime Shortbread Cookies hold their shape and develop their signature texture.
Step 5: Slice and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch rounds or roll and cut out with your favorite cookie cutters. Arrange on the sheet about an inch apart and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, just until the edges are very lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Finish
Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes—this helps them set—then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For that picture-perfect look and a final boost of flavor, dust generously with extra powdered sugar or another sprinkle of lime zest once they’re cool.
How to Serve Key Lime Shortbread Cookies
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! Try a generous snowfall of powdered sugar or a shower of freshly grated lime zest. Want a little extra crunch? A few finely chopped pistachios or coconut flakes on top add color and a tropical twist.
Side Dishes
Key Lime Shortbread Cookies pair beautifully with icy drinks like sweet tea, hibiscus lemonade, or a cold glass of milk. For a fancier spread, serve alongside a light fruit salad or bowl of fresh berries to play up their fruity charm.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching platter, stack cookies on a cake stand and tuck fresh lime slices or edible flowers in among the layers. These cookies also make wonderful edible gifts—tie up a bundle with twine in a cellophane bag or tuck into a pretty tin for a sweet surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Key Lime Shortbread Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously tender for up to a week, making them perfect for baking ahead or leisurely snacking.
Freezing
The baked cookies and unbaked dough both freeze beautifully. Wrap baked cookies carefully and freeze for up to two months; simply thaw at room temperature before serving. Or, freeze dough logs to slice and bake off fresh cookies whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
While these cookies are delightful at room temperature, if you crave that “just-baked” warmth, pop them on a baking sheet in a 275°F oven for 3-4 minutes. This revives their aroma and texture without over-baking.
FAQs
Can I use regular limes if I don’t have key limes?
Absolutely! While key limes offer a unique, fragrant flavor, Persian or regular limes work beautifully and still give the Key Lime Shortbread Cookies a zesty brightness.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling is crucial for shortbread. It helps the dough firm up, which makes slicing easier and prevents excessive spreading during baking. Your cookies will bake up perfectly tender, not tough.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour. The final result remains rich and crumbly, though the texture will be slightly different—still delicious!
What’s the best way to zest limes for this recipe?
Use a fine microplane or citrus zester, and always zest the limes before you juice them. Only remove the bright green part, avoiding the bitter white pith for the best flavor in your Key Lime Shortbread Cookies.
How do I prevent the shortbread from becoming overbaked?
Keep a close eye near the end of baking time. Pull the cookies out as soon as the edges lightly color—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. For that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture, slightly underbaked is better than too crisp.
Final Thoughts
Bring a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen with these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies! They’re a dazzling combination of buttery softness and punchy citrus, sure to make any day feel a little more special. Give them a try—you and your friends will be smiling after just one bite.
Print
Key Lime Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Key Lime Shortbread Cookies are a delightful citrus twist on classic shortbread. Buttery and tender, with a burst of tangy key lime flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Extra powdered sugar or lime zest for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Lime and Vanilla: Add the key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape into logs or discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice chilled dough into rounds or cut with cookie cutters. Bake for 12–14 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool on the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or lime zest if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger lime flavor, add extra zest or a touch of lime extract.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
