Lemon Shortbread Cookies Recipe

If you’re someone who loves the balance of a buttery, crisp shortbread cookie with a zesty citrus twist, then these Lemon Shortbread Cookies will become your new go-to treat. Imagine biting into a delicate cookie that melts in your mouth, with just the right amount of lemony brightness to make each bite feel refreshing yet comforting. These cookies are perfect for every occasion, from afternoon tea to a simple sweet treat after dinner. They’re wonderfully simple to make, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Plus, they’re easy to customize with a drizzle of glaze or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor. Trust me, you’re going to love these!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Here’s why these cookies are a hit:

• Buttery Goodness: The shortbread base is perfectly buttery, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the fresh, zesty lemon flavor.
• Refreshing Lemon Flavor: The bright lemon zest and juice add a pop of citrus that keeps these cookies from feeling too heavy—just the right amount of zing!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are versatile enough for tea time, dessert tables, or a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a lovely homemade gift.
• Simple to Make: Shortbread cookies might sound fancy, but they’re surprisingly easy! With just a handful of ingredients, these come together quickly and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: You can easily add a lemon glaze for extra sweetness or top them with a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking for a nice crunch.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar
• Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• Fresh lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Salt
• Vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card.)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and light in color. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add Lemon and Vanilla

Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly crumbly—this is perfect!

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in size), and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to create a smooth, round shape. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for a little crunch!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them, as you want them to stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

Step 7: Optional Glaze

If you’re adding a lemon glaze, mix together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the tops for that extra burst of lemony sweetness.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once they’ve cooled, enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a delightful treat to savor on your own.

How to Serve Lemon Shortbread Cookies

• With Tea: These cookies are a perfect pairing with your favorite cup of tea. Whether it’s Earl Grey, green tea, or a herbal blend, the citrusy lemon flavor complements the warmth of tea wonderfully.
• As a Gift: Pack a dozen or two in a cute tin or box, and you’ve got a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
• After Dinner: Serve these cookies as a light, refreshing dessert after a heavier meal. They’re the perfect way to end any meal on a sweet and citrusy note.

Additional Tips

• Chill the Dough: If you prefer a firmer dough, or if you find the dough too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling out the balls. This will help the cookies keep their shape.
• Zest Carefully: Be sure to zest the lemon before juicing it! The zest contains all the essential oils and that vibrant lemon flavor that will make these cookies truly shine.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them tightly to preserve freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 140 kcal
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 45mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 4% DV
Vitamin C: 4% DV
Calcium: 0% DV
Iron: 2% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

A1: While unsalted butter is preferred to control the amount of salt, you can use salted butter. Just be sure to skip the extra salt in the recipe.

Q2: Can I freeze the dough for later?

A2: Yes! You can wrap the dough in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before shaping the cookies.

Q3: Can I add more lemon flavor to these cookies?

A3: Absolutely! You can add extra lemon zest or lemon juice to the dough, or even make a lemon glaze to drizzle over the cookies for an extra citrus punch.

Q4: How can I make these cookies dairy-free?

A4: To make these cookies dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.

Q5: Can I use a mixer to make the dough?

A5: Yes! You can use an electric mixer or a stand mixer to make the dough. Just be sure not to overmix to keep the cookies light and tender.

Q6: Can I add chocolate chips or other add-ins to these cookies?

A6: While these cookies are best when kept simple, you can add small amounts of mini chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries for a fun twist.

Q7: What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

A7: Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them tightly.

Q8: Can I make these cookies without a glaze?

A8: Absolutely! The glaze is optional, and the cookies are just as delicious without it. If you prefer, you can sprinkle them with some extra sugar before baking for a little crunch.

Q9: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

A9: Make sure to chill the dough if it’s too soft, as this will help the cookies hold their shape during baking. Additionally, try not to overwork the dough.

Q10: How can I make these cookies a little less sweet?

A10: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the dough or skip the glaze. The cookies will still have that lovely buttery lemon flavor.

Conclusion

These Lemon Shortbread Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery richness and bright citrus flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a simple, delicious treat, these cookies are guaranteed to delight. With their delicate texture and refreshing lemon notes, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead, treat yourself to a batch (or two) and enjoy the simple pleasure of these delightful cookies!

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