Lemon Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the buttery richness of classic shortbread with the Lemon Shortbread Cookies bright, zesty flavor of lemon. These cookies are perfect for a sweet afternoon snack, a special occasion, or as a homemade gift. Follow this simple recipe to make a batch of these delicious cookies that are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly crisp.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes of mixing with an electric mixer.
3. Add Lemon Flavors
Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice until fully incorporated. The lemon zest adds a fragrant, citrusy aroma, while the juice provides a burst of fresh lemon flavor.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Shape the Cookies
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it until smooth. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or simply slice into rectangles or squares if you prefer. Place the cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain pale. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Optional: Dust with Powdered Sugar
For an extra touch of sweetness, you can dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a lovely, delicate finish to the cookies.
Tips for Success
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Cold butter will not cream well and can result in uneven cookies.
- Lemon Zest: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon for the best texture and flavor.
- Cookie Shapes: For uniform cookies, consider using cookie cutters or a rolling pin with adjustable guides.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Lemon Shortbread Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery shortbread and bright lemon flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them as a personal treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Follow this simple recipe to create a batch of these scrumptious cookies and savor every bite!
