Lemon Shortbread Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances buttery richness with bright citrus notes, these Lemon Shortbread Cookies are an absolute must-try. Tender and crumbly shortbread meets the fresh zing of lemon zest and juice, creating a cookie that feels both comforting and refreshingly vibrant. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving behind a subtle tang that elevates the traditional shortbread experience into something truly special. Whether for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, these Lemon Shortbread Cookies bring happy smiles and a little sunshine wherever they go.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Lemon Shortbread Cookies lies in their simplicity, with everyday ingredients that come together to deliver extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the buttery softness to the perfect citrus brightness that makes these cookies unforgettable.

• Salted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that contributes to the tender texture of the shortbread.
• Powdered sugar: Adds delicate sweetness and helps create that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cookie dough.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor by introducing warm, aromatic notes.
• Fresh lemon juice: Delivers a vibrant, fresh tang that brightens every bite.
• Lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils, adding depth and aroma.

For the luscious finishing touch, you’ll need extra powdered sugar and lemon juice for the lemon glaze that adorns the cookies beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using a mixer, cream the softened salted butter and powdered sugar together until you get a smooth and fluffy mixture. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Adding Flavor and Flour

Once your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, mix in the pure vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and fragrant lemon zest for that unmistakable citrus punch. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while continuing to blend until the dough forms a cohesive ball. The lemon elements transform a simple shortbread into something extraordinary.

Step 3: Shaping the Cookies

Divide the dough into two equal balls to make rolling easier. On a lightly floured surface (using flour or powdered sugar to avoid sticking), roll out each dough ball to about one-quarter inch thickness. Use a two-inch cookie cutter to create evenly sized rounds. Placement on the parchment-lined baking sheet should give each cookie some breathing space for even baking.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Bake the cookies for approximately 15 minutes or until the edges develop a delicate golden hue. This subtle browning means your shortbread has achieved the ideal crumbly but firm texture. After removing them from the oven, allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Glazing with Lemon Love

While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar if it’s too thin, or more lemon juice if it’s too thick. Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the tops and let it set for a few minutes. This sweet-tart glaze adds that perfect finishing touch to your Lemon Shortbread Cookies.

How to Serve Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your Lemon Shortbread Cookies, consider sprinkling a little extra lemon zest or a fine dusting of powdered sugar on top after glazing. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can also add a stunning visual appeal and a hint of herbal freshness.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea — Earl Grey or chamomile would be exquisite choices. A light lemonade or sparkling water with a twist of lemon also complements the citrus notes beautifully, keeping the palate refreshed between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Surprise your guests by stacking these cookies in a tiered jar or arranging them on a decorative platter surrounded by fresh lemon slices. Wrapping a small bundle tied with a yellow ribbon can make for a charming homemade gift as well. You can even sandwich a layer of lemon curd between two cookies for a decadent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lemon Shortbread Cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keep them layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, you can freeze the unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. To freeze glazed cookies, wait until the glaze has fully set to avoid smudging. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Lemon Shortbread Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for about five minutes. This will refresh their buttery softness without melting the glaze.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Absolutely! Just add a small pinch of salt to the dough to balance the flavors if you only have unsalted butter on hand.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Try substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a powdered sugar blend that is certified vegan. The texture might vary slightly, but the lemon flavor will still shine through.

Is fresh lemon juice necessary?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended as it provides the brightest and most natural citrus flavor, which is key to these Lemon Shortbread Cookies.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

What is the best way to prevent cookies from sticking?

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheets. Also, lightly flour your rolling surface and cookie cutters to keep the dough from sticking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Lemon Shortbread Cookies—the perfect union of buttery richness and bright citrus that never fails to delight. I can’t recommend these enough, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your cookie adventures. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll have a fresh new favorite to share with friends, family, or simply to indulge in on your own.

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