Description
Delight in these tangy and sweet Key Lime Cookies, featuring a soft buttery base infused with vibrant key lime zest and topped with a luscious key lime glaze. Perfectly balanced between citrusy freshness and sweet indulgence, these cookies are an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (one stick)
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 2-3 teaspoons key lime zest
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (219g)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Key Lime Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- ½ teaspoon key lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda, then set aside to be incorporated later.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate larger mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the mixture for about 1–2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, which will create a smooth base for the cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Lime Zest: Mix in the egg and vanilla paste until fully combined. Add the key lime zest and mix to distribute evenly, ensuring the citrus flavor infuses the dough.
- Incorporate Flour Mixture: Add one-third of the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and gently beat until combined. Slowly continue adding the remaining flour mixture, mixing just until the dough forms to avoid overworking.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and arrange them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are slightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Key Lime Glaze: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, key lime juice, milk, vanilla extract, key lime zest, and a pinch of salt if using. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk to achieve a smooth glaze.
- Glaze and Set: Once the cookies are fully cooled, either dip each cookie into the glaze or spread the glaze on top using a knife. Allow the icing to set completely before serving.
- Storage: Store any remaining cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4–5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using key lime zest and juice provides a unique and authentic flavor; regular lime can be substituted but will alter the taste slightly.
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep cookies tender.
- For a stronger glaze flavor, increase the key lime juice gradually to taste, adjusting powdered sugar to maintain desired consistency.
- Cookies can be frozen before glazing; thaw completely before glazing if desired.
