Lemon and lime shortbread
Lemon and lime shortbread cookies deliver a zesty twist on the classic with fresh citrus zest that brightens the buttery flavor. This easy recipe results in cookies that are crisp on the edges and tender in the middle, perfect for any occasion.
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 100 min
Ingredients:
1/3 cup butter1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup corn flour
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lime zest
Lemon and lime shortbread is a delightful and zesty twist on the classic shortbread cookie. The fresh citrus notes from the lemon and lime zest add a refreshing burst of flavor, making these cookies perfect for a light dessert or an afternoon treat. This recipe is straightforward, but the results are simply irresistible—crisp edges with a tender, buttery center. Let's dive into how to make this citrus-infused shortbread.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until it becomes creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter and continue to mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and corn flour. Mix well to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Add the lemon zest and lime zest to the butter mixture. Mix until the zest is evenly distributed throughout the buttery mixture.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until the dough comes together and forms a smooth consistency.
- Roll the dough into a log approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to slice.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/4-inch thick cookies.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once completely cooled, serve your Lemon and Lime Shortbread cookies with a cup of tea or as a delightful treat anytime!
Lemon and lime shortbread is a wonderfully refreshing take on traditional shortbread. The citrus zests not only provide a bright flavor but also an aromatic experience that elevates the cookie to a new level. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a standalone treat, these shortbread cookies are sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!
Lemon and lime shortbread FAQ:
Bake the Lemon and Lime Shortbread cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
The shortbread is done when the edges are lightly golden. Be sure to keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends, but this may alter the texture slightly. Avoid using high-protein flours like bread flour for best results.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
While you can add a small amount of fresh juice for flavor, it may affect the dough's consistency. It's best to use the zest as specified in the recipe for optimal texture.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a more consistent dough.
- Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemons and limes for the best texture and flavor integration.
- After mixing the dough, let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and make the dough easier to handle.
- Roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an even thickness.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can dust the finished shortbread with powdered sugar once they have cooled.
- For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a small amount of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice to the dough.
Nutrition Facts
8 ServingsCalories 220kcal
Protein 4.42g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 1.39g
Sugar 0.34g
Fat 8g
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