Key Lime Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate summertime treat, look no further than these Key Lime Cookies. They’re like little bites of vacation: soft, buttery, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, with just enough sweetness to keep you coming back for more. The combination of zingy key lime juice and zest, plus a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, transforms this classic cookie into something truly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party or craving a citrusy pick-me-up, these cookies are bound to hit the spot.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Key Lime Cookies comes from a simple set of ingredients, each playing a pivotal role in building that classic texture and vibrant citrusy taste. Grab these pantry staples and let’s turn them into pure cookie bliss!

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): This is the backbone of our cookie, delivering richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create that signature tender crumb.
• Large Egg (1): Binds everything together and gives the cookies structure.
• Key Lime Juice (2 tablespoons): The star ingredient—brings that punchy, unforgettable flavor.
• Key Lime Zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the citrus notes and adds color flecks throughout every cookie.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): Offers body and chew, balancing the wet ingredients perfectly.
• Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): Provides lift and tenderness to the dough.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the sweetness and brightens the lime taste.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup, for dusting or coating): Adds a gorgeous snowy finish and a touch of melt-away sweetness.

How to Make Key Lime Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will make cleanup a breeze and keep your cookies perfectly golden without sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is all about incorporating air, which gives your Key Lime Cookies the perfect tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg, pouring in all the rich goodness. Then add the key lime juice and zest, mixing until everything is thoroughly combined. The scent at this stage is pure citrus heaven!

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed, which means perfectly textured cookies in every batch.

Step 5: Bring the Dough Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough forms. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as it looks cohesive and there are no flour steaks left. The dough will be thick, soft, and fragrant.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each bit into a ball between your palms. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, giving about 2 inches of space for spreading.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges are a gentle golden color. Keep an eye on them—the goal is soft centers with lightly crisped edges.

Step 8: Cool and Finish

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar or roll them gently for an extra-special finish. Your Key Lime Cookies are ready to impress!

How to Serve Key Lime Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar lets the lime flavor shine, but for a pop of color, try a sprinkle of extra lime zest or even a twist of candied lime peel on top of each cookie. These finishes add a dazzling look and a hint of extra aromatics.

Side Dishes

Pair your Key Lime Cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a bowl of lightly sweetened whipped cream. These cool, creamy contrasts balance the tangy citrus bite and make dessert feel like a true celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the cookies high on a tiered stand for afternoon tea, or tuck a few into a cellophane bag tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. For summer celebrations, serve alongside a pitcher of iced key limeade—what could be more refreshing?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop your cooled Key Lime Cookies into an airtight container and store them at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to a week—perfect for midday snacking or sweet cravings any time.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a zip-top bag with parchment between layers. Alternatively, freeze unbaked dough balls, then bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

For freshly-baked flavor, warm up cookies in a 300°F oven for just a couple of minutes. If dusted with powdered sugar, add a little fresh sugar after reheating for the prettiest finish.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular lime juice for key lime juice?

Absolutely! Regular lime juice will work just fine if key limes are hard to find. The cookies will still have a lovely citrus flavor, just with a slightly different nuance.

Do I have to use powdered sugar for dusting?

While powdered sugar adds a classic finish and extra sweetness, you can skip it or try a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lime juice for a fun twist.

Can I make these Key Lime Cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture might be a bit more delicate, but the flavor will still shine.

What’s the best way to zest key limes?

Use a microplane or fine grater, being careful only to grate the green outer layer and not the bitter white pith beneath. Key limes are small, so gentle pressure works best!

How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?

The edges should look lightly golden while the centers remain pale and soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool, so don’t wait for them to brown all over.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the sunshiney brightness and buttery melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these Key Lime Cookies. Fresh, unique, and unfailingly cheerful, they’re a citrusy treat everyone will love—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself baking another batch well before summer is over!

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