Introduction

These Key Lime Cookies offer a refreshing twist on a classic treat with a tangy lime glaze and a soft, buttery base. Perfect for lime lovers looking for a bright, zesty dessert that’s easy to make at home.

The image shows a group of round cookies placed on crinkled white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a pale golden brown base layer with a soft, slightly crumbly texture. On top of this is a smooth, thick layer of white icing that covers nearly the whole cookie, decorated with scattered small thin strands of bright green lime zest. One cookie near the bottom right has a bite taken out of it, revealing the soft cookie inside beneath the icing. A small white bowl filled with more lime zest is visible on the lower left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (one stick)
1 large egg
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 teaspoons key lime zest
1¾ cups flour (219g)
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined. Stir in the key lime zest.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour mixture in thirds, mixing just until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, key lime juice, milk, vanilla, salt (if using), and key lime zest to make the glaze. Adjust thickness by adding more liquid or powdered sugar as needed.
Step 8: Once cookies are fully cooled, either dip each cookie into the glaze or spread it on top with a knife. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh key limes if possible for the most authentic flavor; regular limes can substitute but yield a milder tang.
For a more intense lime flavor, add a bit more zest to both the dough and the glaze.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, chill it briefly before glazing the cookies.
To make the cookies dairy-free, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk for the glaze.

Storage

Store the glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you prefer, you can keep the cookies without glaze for up to a week, glazing them just before serving. To reheat, enjoy at room temperature or warm briefly for softness, but be careful not to melt the glaze.

How to Serve

Several round cookies arranged on a white marbled textured surface lined with crumpled white parchment paper, each cookie has a thick light beige base with a smooth, shiny, creamy white icing layer spread evenly on top and sprinkled with small, thin green lime zest pieces. One cookie has a bite taken out of it, revealing the soft texture inside. There is also a small white bowl filled with more lime zest visible at the bottom left corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?

Yes, regular limes can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be less tart and slightly different. Key limes offer a unique, stronger citrus note.

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Be careful not to overbake; remove the cookies when edges are lightly golden and centers still look slightly underbaked. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a rack to retain moisture.