Key Lime Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Key Lime Cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic cookie with a bright, tangy glaze that perfectly complements a soft, buttery base. They’re easy to make and bring a burst of citrus flavor ideal for any season.

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

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

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense lime flavor, consider using fresh key lime juice and zest rather than bottled lime juice.
• If you don’t have key limes, regular lime zest and juice can be substituted with good results.
• Try adding a handful of finely chopped macadamia nuts to the dough for a crunchy texture.
• Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps maintain the cookie shape and enhances flavor.

Storage

Store the glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. To keep the glaze intact, place wax paper between layers. These cookies can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in a low oven if you prefer warmed cookies, but be careful not to melt the glaze.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps develop the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.

What if I don’t have key limes?

If key limes aren’t available, regular limes or even lemons can be used as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Key Lime Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 92 reviews

Delight in these tangy and tender Key Lime Cookies, featuring a zesty key lime-infused dough and a luscious, sweet lime glaze. Perfectly soft with a refreshing citrus glaze, these cookies bring a bright burst of flavor to any occasion.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 18–20 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

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

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 Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda thoroughly and set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat them for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for the cookie dough.
3. Add Wet Ingredients and Lime Zest: Add in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugars and beat until fully incorporated. Then add the key lime zest and mix gently to evenly distribute the citrus flavor.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add about a third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing only until combined. Continue to slowly add the remaining flour mixture until a cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
5. Shape and Bake Cookies: Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and arrange them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Lime Glaze: Once the cookies are fully cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, key lime juice, milk, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and key lime zest in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk until desired thickness is reached.
7. Glaze and Set: Dip each cookie into the lime glaze or spread it over the top with a knife. Allow the glaze to set completely before serving. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for 4-5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for the best creaming results.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender and soft.
• The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin it.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For extra brightness, use fresh key lime zest and juice if available.

Keywords: Key Lime Cookies, Lime Cookies, Citrus Cookies, Soft Cookies, Dessert, Baked Cookies, Key Lime Zest, Lime Glaze