Description
These delightful Key Lime Cookies offer a zesty twist on a classic treat, featuring fresh key lime juice and zest for a bright citrus flavor balanced with a soft, buttery texture. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack, these cookies are easy to make and baked to perfection with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 2 key limes
For Finishing
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for a tender cookie texture.
- Add wet flavorings: Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, freshly squeezed key lime juice, and lime zest into the butter mixture. Beat until everything is fully combined and smooth for maximum flavor infusion.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Portion the dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges turn slightly golden, but the centers remain soft.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set without breaking.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Once fully cooled, lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar to add a subtle sweetness and an attractive finish.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice and zest.
- Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help control spreading if desired.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These cookies also freeze well; thaw at room temperature before serving.
