Gourmet Lemon Shortbread Cookies with Zesty Lemon Glaze: The Perfect Sweet & Tangy Treat

If you’re a fan of buttery, crumbly shortbread cookies with a bright citrus twist, you’re in for a treat! These Gourmet Lemon Shortbread Cookies with Zesty Lemon Glaze are the ultimate combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for tea time, gifting, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing lemon glaze, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, share expert baking tips, and provide all the details you need to make these cookies perfectly every time. Plus, I’ve included nutritional information and answers to frequently asked questions to make your baking experience seamless. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The buttery shortbread base pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon glaze for a delightful contrast.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.

• Versatile: These cookies are great for holidays, parties, or as homemade gifts.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the bright, refreshing taste.

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Ingredients You’ll Need For the Lemon Shortbread Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Zesty Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1-2 teaspoons milk (optional, for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time:

15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Lemon Flavor

Mix in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice until fully incorporated. The zest adds a burst of citrus flavor, while the juice enhances the tanginess.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down on each ball with the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Lemon Glaze

While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Baking Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for this recipe.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

3. Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before shaping.

4. Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cookies after 15 minutes to prevent overbaking.

5. Customize the Glaze: Add a drop of yellow food coloring to the glaze for a brighter look, or mix in a pinch of turmeric for a natural yellow hue.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 120

• Total Fat: 7g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Cholesterol: 18mg

• Sodium: 20mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 14g

• Sugars: 8g

• Protein: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Can I Freeze These Cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze the baked cookies (without glaze) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze before serving.

Can I Use Lime or Orange Instead of Lemon?

Definitely! Swap the lemon zest and juice for lime or orange to create a different citrus variation.

Why Are My Cookies Spreading Too Much?

If your cookies spread too much, the dough may be too warm. Chill the dough before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

• Tea Time: Pair these cookies with a cup of Earl Grey or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

• Gift Idea: Package the cookies in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

• Dessert Platter: Add these cookies to a dessert platter with other bite-sized treats for parties or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These Gourmet Lemon Shortbread Cookies with Zesty Lemon Glaze are a delightful blend of buttery richness and bright citrus flavor. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or as a gift, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a must-try recipe for any baking enthusiast.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s bake up a batch of these irresistible cookies! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us at https://gourmetcookiebliss.com. Happy baking! �🍋

Recipe adapted from classic shortbread techniques with a citrus twist. For more gourmet cookie recipes, visit https://gourmetcookiebliss.com.

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