Lemon Shortbread Cookies
Delicious and buttery cookies infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, perfect for tea parties or afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar Provides base sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest Brings vibrant lemon flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Gives tender and rich quality.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Enhances the lemon flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure.
- 1/3 cup cornstarch Lightens the flour for a delicate crumb.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted For the icing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for icing) For added zing in the icing.
- 1 tablespoon milk (any kind) Balances the sweetness in icing.
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for icing) For a richer taste.
- optional coarse sparkling sugar for sprinkling Adds crunch and sparkly finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the granulated sugar and fresh lemon zest in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the lemon sugar and softened butter together until light and fluffy.
- Add fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt until dough clumps form.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into desired shapes.
- Refrigerate cut cookies for an additional 15 minutes to maintain shapes during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 14-15 minutes or until edges are light golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack.
- Dip cooled cookies in icing made from confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla.
- Let excess icing drip off and allow cookies to set before serving.
Notes
Tips include measuring ingredients accurately and ensuring butter is softened for easy creaming. Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading.