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Key Lime Cookies

These cookies are made by mixing a buttery sugar dough with fresh lime zest and juice, then shaping and baking until golden. They feature a crisp exterior with a soft, tender center, and a vibrant, zesty flavor that balances tanginess with sweetness. The finished cookies have a delicate crunch on the outside and a chewy interior with visible flecks of lime zest.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp lime zest freshly grated
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You'll notice the color brighten and the texture become fluffy.
  2. Add the egg, lime zest, and lime juice to the butter mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth, with a slight glossy appearance.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine evenly. This ensures the leavening is distributed throughout the dough.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Use a cookie scoop or your tablespoon to portion out dough balls onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  6. Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to about 1/2-inch thickness. This helps create an even bake and a nice surface for crispness.
  7. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. You’ll hear a faint sizzle as they bake and see the edges crisp up beautifully.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven once the cookies are golden along the edges and slightly firm to the touch. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes so they set up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. As the cookies cool, you'll notice the aroma of lime filling the kitchen—fresh, zesty, and inviting. The edges will be crispy, while the center remains tender and chewy.
  10. Enjoy these cookies at room temperature, perhaps with a cup of tea or milk. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining their delightful crunch outside and soft interior.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before baking. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for a richer aroma.