When life gives you limes—make Key Lime Shortbread Cookies! These cookies are buttery and tender with a vibrant key lime curd center, a delicate citrus glaze, and just the right balance of tart and sweet. Perfect for spring gatherings, summer teas, or anytime you want a dessert that sparkles with sunshine.
☀️ Why I Love This Recipe
These cookies bring together:
- The richness of classic shortbread
- A pop of citrusy key lime curd
- A glossy lime glaze for extra punch
- An eye-catching finish with a sprinkle of zest
They’re soft, refreshing, and guaranteed to disappear quickly—especially when served chilled!
🧾 Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, sifted and spooned
- 1 cup fresh key lime curd (store-bought or homemade)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
- Fresh lime zest (optional, for garnish)
🍋 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until fully incorporated. Gradually add in flour in two additions, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill Overnight
Press the dough into a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This helps the cookies hold their shape and deepens the flavor.
3. Prep for Baking
Remove the dough from the fridge an hour before baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
4. Shape & Fill
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place on the baking sheet and press a thumbprint into the center of each. Add 1/2 teaspoon of key lime curd into each indentation.
5. Chill Again
Refrigerate the shaped cookies for 30 minutes or freeze for 10 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
6. Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and immediately spoon another 1/2 teaspoon of curd into the warm centers.
7. Cool & Glaze
Allow cookies to cool completely on a rack. Mix the glaze ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and garnish with a little fresh lime zest if desired.
💡 Tips for Success
- Chilling is key—twice! Once for the dough, and again before baking.
- Don’t overfill—use a measuring spoon to keep the curd from overflowing.
- For more citrus depth, add lime zest directly into the dough.
- Serve slightly chilled for the best texture and flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with:
- These Easy Coconut Macaroons for a tropical dessert spread
- Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies to brighten any cookie tray
- The Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About for a seasonal celebration
- Grasshopper Pie for a refreshing after-dinner bite
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for a tea-time spread
🧊 Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days—these taste amazing slightly chilled!
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 30 days in a single layer. Thaw and drizzle glaze before serving if freezing unglazed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re baking for a party or just because you love a tangy twist, these Key Lime Shortbread Cookies are a treat worth making again and again. Sweet, citrusy, and buttery-soft with a creamy center—what’s not to love?
Tried them? Tag @chefmaniac and share your sunny cookie photos. Don’t forget to follow us for more bright bites and baking joy! 💛🍪
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