Imagine biting into a cookie that transports you to a sunny Florida Keys beach with every single crumb - that's exactly what these Key Lime Pie Shortbread Cookies promise! These aren't just ordinary cookies; they're a tantalizing fusion of buttery shortbread and the bright, refreshing essence of key lime pie. Perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or when you're craving a dessert that's both sophisticated and irresistibly delicious, these cookies will become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 30 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add key lime juice and key lime zest to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. The zest will provide intense citrus flavor and aroma.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Place the granulated sugar in a separate shallow bowl for coating the cookies.
- Using clean hands, roll the dough into small 1-inch balls, then gently roll each ball in the granulated sugar to create a light coating.
- Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Use the bottom of a flat glass to gently press down on each cookie, creating a slightly flattened shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime zest and juice for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Bottled juice works, but fresh is always best!
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this creates the perfect cookie texture.
- Don't overwork the dough; mix just until ingredients are combined to keep cookies tender.
- For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop or weigh each dough ball.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their crisp texture.
- For an extra fancy touch, you can drizzle white chocolate or dust with powdered sugar after cooling.
- Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent cookies from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
