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Key Lime Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 113 reviews

Delight in the zesty and tangy sweetness of these Key Lime Cookies, featuring a soft, buttery base infused with bright key lime zest and topped with a smooth, citrusy glaze. Perfect for a refreshing twist on classic cookies, these treats balance sweet and tart flavors beautifully and are ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 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
  • 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

  1. 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. Set aside for later. This creates the base for your cookie dough.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes until it reaches a light and fluffy texture, which will help give the cookies a tender crumb.
  3. Add Egg, Vanilla, and Lime Zest: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then, add the key lime zest, distributing the flavorful zest evenly throughout the dough for a bright citrus note.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add about one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and beat only until just combined. Repeat slowly adding the remaining flour mixture in portions, mixing gently until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
  5. Shape and Bake Cookies: Roll the dough into 1 ½-inch balls and arrange them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Prepare the Key Lime Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, key lime juice, milk, vanilla extract, pinch of salt (if using), and key lime zest. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable thickness.
  7. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, either dip each cookie into the glaze or spread it over the top with a knife. Allow the glaze to set fully before serving.
  8. Storage: Store any remaining cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh key limes if available for zest and juice.
  • Ensure butter is softened but not melted to achieve the proper creaming texture.
  • Do not overbake cookies; they will firm up as they cool.
  • Adjust glaze consistency by varying powdered sugar and milk quantities to your preference.
  • Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: Key lime cookies, lime zest cookies, citrus cookies, glazed cookies, homemade cookies, easy dessert, soft cookies

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/key-lime-cookies-recipe/