Zesty Key Lime Cookies Recipe for a Bright, Citrus Treat
If you’re craving a cookie that’s refreshingly tangy with a sweet, buttery base, Key lime cookies are the answer. These vibrant treats pack the signature tartness of Key limes paired with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes cookies so lovable. Perfect for summer days, tea parties, or whenever you want a break from the ordinary, this recipe delivers bright citrusy goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Key Lime Cookies
Key lime cookies are like a burst of sunshine in cookie form. They balance tart and sweet effortlessly, making them a standout among traditional cookie recipes. Plus, with their light, zesty flavor and delicate crumb, they’re a refreshing choice for dessert trays, gifting, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Key lime juice (fresh preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting or coating, optional)
Optional Glaze
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1½ tablespoons Key lime juice
- Additional Key lime zest for garnish
How to Make Key Lime Cookies
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, Key lime juice, and Key lime zest until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape and Bake
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool and Dust
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
7. Optional Glaze
For extra zing, whisk together powdered sugar and Key lime juice to make a glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with more zest if desired.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Cookies
- Fresh Key Limes: Whenever possible, use fresh Key lime juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor. Regular limes work in a pinch but won’t have the same depth.
- Chilling the Dough: For firmer cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
Key lime cookies are a playful yet elegant treat that brings a unique citrus twist to any dessert spread. Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with glaze, these cookies are sure to brighten your day with every bite.
Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.
