Name: Lemon Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 75 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Butter (salted, at room temperature); 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1/2 cup Confectioner's Sugar; 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; 1 1/2 tablespoons Lemon Juice; 1/2 cup Confectioner's Sugar; 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice

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There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to Lemon Shortbread Cookies. I remember the first time I made them; the whole house filled with the zesty aroma of fresh lemons, making my mouth water in anticipation. This recipe is a cherished family favorite that I often whip up for gatherings, celebrations, or even just a cozy afternoon at home. Each bite brings back memories of sunny days and laughter, and I can’t help but smile as I share them with friends and family. The buttery, crumbly texture pairs perfectly with the refreshing lemon flavor, making every cookie a delightful treat.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
75 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

What I love most about these cookies is how simple the ingredients are, yet they come together to create something truly special. The blend of butter, cornstarch, and confectioner’s sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while lemon zest and lemon juice add that refreshing zing that keeps you coming back for more. Whenever I bake a batch, I find it hard to resist sneaking a cookie (or two) before they’re fully cooled! Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will have you feeling like a pro in no time.

Why This Lemon Shortbread Cookies Works

A Timeless Treat

There’s a reason Lemon Shortbread Cookies have stood the test of time. They’re not just delicious; they evoke a sense of nostalgia that resonates with many. With their rich history, these cookies have been a part of countless celebrations and family gatherings, making them a beloved classic.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon tea, a birthday party, or simply a treat after dinner, they fit right in. Their delightful flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for hosting guests.

Easy to Make

The beauty of Lemon Shortbread Cookies lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients, even novice bakers can create a scrumptious batch. The process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the art of baking without feeling overwhelmed.

Customization Potential

While the classic version is to die for, you can easily customize these cookies to suit your taste. Adding a hint of lavender or a dash of poppy seeds can elevate them to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless!

Freezer Friendly

One of my favorite aspects of these cookies is their freezing capability. You can make a double batch, slice them, and freeze the dough for later enjoyment. Just bake them fresh whenever a craving hits!

What Goes Into Lemon Shortbread Cookies

The ingredients in Lemon Shortbread Cookies are fundamental to their unique flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, combining to create a cookie that’s both buttery and melt-in-your-mouth soft. The star players here are butter, which provides richness, cornstarch, which contributes to the cookie’s delicate texture, and lemon zest and lemon juice that give it that signature citrus punch.

Butter: 3/4 cup (170g) of salted butter at room temperature creates the rich, creamy base for these cookies, ensuring they have a tender crumb.
Cornstarch: 1/2 cup (56g) of cornstarch contributes to the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth quality, giving them a light and delicate texture.
Confectioner’s Sugar: 1/2 cup (57g) of confectioner’s sugar sweetens the dough while keeping it smooth and soft.
All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/4 cups (150g) of all-purpose flour provides structure, allowing the cookies to hold their shape while still being soft.
Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (6g) of lemon zest infuses the dough with bright citrus flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Lemon Juice: 1 1/2 tablespoons (21g) of lemon juice adds moisture and tang, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Additional Confectioner’s Sugar: 1/2 cup (57g) is used for glazing, making every bite extra sweet and zesty.
Additional Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (6g) of lemon zest is used again in the glaze, amplifying the lemony goodness.
Additional Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (28g) of lemon juice in the glaze brings a fresh, tart finish.

How to Cook Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Making Lemon Shortbread Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful scents and flavors. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies perfect for sharing (or keeping to yourself!).

Start by creaming together the butter, cornstarch, and confectioner’s sugar in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat them until they are well-combined and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture becoming lighter in color and texture—this is a sign you’re on the right track!
Next, add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined; it’s crucial to avoid over-mixing at this stage. The dough should come together without any dry flour visible. You want it to be soft and slightly sticky but still manageable.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the fresh flavors! Add the lemon zest and lemon juice into the dough. This step is where the magic happens; the zesty smell will make your mouth water. Beat the mixture until everything is thoroughly mixed, and a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough in half and turn each half out onto a piece of parchment or waxed paper. Shape each piece into a 1-inch roll, twisting the ends of the paper to seal it. This method ensures your cookies will have a uniform shape once baked. Refrigerate the rolls until they are firm—about 1 hour is perfect!
When it’s time to bake, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between as the cookies will spread slightly.
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are set, but don’t expect any browning—this is key. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a medium mixing bowl, combine another 1/2 cup of confectioner’s sugar, the additional lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the glaze onto the center of each cookie, spreading it gently with the back of the spoon. The glaze adds a lovely shine and an extra layer of lemony flavor. Allow the glaze to set before serving—this will make for a lovely presentation!

Things Worth Knowing

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the cookie’s structure. It helps them hold their shape while baking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh over bottled whenever possible.
Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven temperature is accurate. An oven thermometer can help you avoid overbaking or underbaking.
Adjust Baking Time: Depending on your oven, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on them as they bake.
Perfect Glaze: Ensure the glaze is smooth and not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a bit more lemon juice to reach the desired consistency.

Tips for Success

When it comes to baking Lemon Shortbread Cookies, having a few tips up your sleeve can make all the difference. Here are some pointers to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about a week, but I bet they’ll be gone long before then!
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just slice it and wrap it well in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or a refreshing lemonade, making them a perfect afternoon snack.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus flavors like orange or lime for a fun twist.
Presentation: Dusting the cookies with a little extra confectioner’s sugar before serving adds a nice touch and makes them even more appealing.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Serving Lemon Shortbread Cookies can be just as delightful as making them. Here are some ideas to elevate your cookie experience:

Tea Time: Serve these cookies with a pot of herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Picnic Snacks: Pack them for a picnic along with fresh fruits and cheeses to complement their sweetness.
Celebratory Treats: Bring them to gatherings or parties; their unique taste is always a hit!
Holiday Goodies: Tie them up in decorative bags as gifts during the holidays.
Brunch Buffet: Include them in a brunch spread alongside scones and pastries to impress your guests.
After Dinner Delight: Offer them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe is tailored for Lemon Shortbread Cookies, you can easily substitute lemon with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile, making this recipe versatile and allowing you to experiment with what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the amount of zest and juice according to the fruit’s sweetness and acidity to ensure a balanced flavor.

If you or someone you know has a gluten intolerance, you can make Lemon Shortbread Cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Many blends are available at grocery stores that can be substituted in equal amounts for regular flour. Be sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. The cookies will be just as tender and delicious!

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, Lemon Shortbread Cookies can last for about a week. However, they are often eaten much sooner because they’re so delicious! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat anytime you have a craving.

Yes, you can absolutely make the dough for Lemon Shortbread Cookies ahead of time. Just follow the steps up to rolling the dough into logs, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze. If you freeze the dough, just make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking. This is a great way to have homemade cookies on hand for unexpected guests or a spontaneous craving!

Conclusion

Lemon Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines buttery richness with bright lemon flavor, making them a timeless favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the joy of these cookies with your family and friends. Baking is not just about the finished product; it’s about the experiences and memories created along the way. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy baking session!