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Key Lime Cookies Recipe

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4.1 from 8 reviews

Delight in these zesty and tender Key Lime Cookies, bursting with fresh key lime flavor both in the cookie dough and a tangy glaze. Perfectly soft with a hint of citrus zest, these cookies are a refreshing twist on a classic treat, ready in just 30 minutes and ideal for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (113g), softened to room temperature
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ¾ cup sugar (150g)
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar (50g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 23 tsp key lime zest
  • 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour (219g)
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt

Key Lime Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 Tbsp key lime juice
  • 12 Tbsp milk
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp key lime zest
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate, larger mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat these together for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
  3. Add Egg, Vanilla, and Lime Zest: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then add the key lime zest and mix briefly to distribute the flavor throughout the mixture.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add about one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating only until just mixed. Continue adding the remaining flour in increments, mixing gently each time to form a soft cookie dough without overworking it.
  5. Shape and Bake Cookies: Roll the dough into approximately 1 ½-inch diameter balls and place them evenly spaced on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft.
  6. Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Prepare Key Lime Glaze: While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, key lime juice, milk, vanilla extract, key lime zest, and a pinch of salt (if using). Adjust the milk or powdered sugar to achieve your preferred glaze consistency. Let the glaze sit for several minutes to thicken slightly.
  8. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, dip each cookie into the glaze or use a knife to spread the glaze evenly over the tops.
  9. Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set before serving. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure butter and egg are at room temperature before starting to guarantee even mixing.
  • Using fresh key lime zest and juice will provide the most vibrant flavor; if unavailable, regular lime zest can be a substitute.
  • Do not overbake the cookies; they should remain soft in the center to maintain their tender texture.
  • Adjust glaze consistency with milk or powdered sugar to make it thicker or thinner according to preference.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.