These Citrus-Infused Shortbread Cookies blend the classic, buttery texture of shortbread with the fresh zest of citrus for a delightful flavor experience. Perfect for those who enjoy a subtle twist on traditional recipes, these cookies offer a hint of vanilla and a burst of citrus that make them irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat on their own, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This: You'll appreciate the simplicity of these cookies, paired with the sophisticated flavor combination of butter, citrus, and vanilla. The citrus zest not only adds a refreshing aroma but also enhances the cookies' flavor, making them a perfect choice for any season. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture is exactly what you expect from a high-quality shortbread cookie.
Perfect Occasion: These cookies are ideal for tea parties, family gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift during the holidays. They can also serve as an elegant dessert for dinner parties or special events. Their universal appeal makes them suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful finish, you can sprinkle the cookies with coarse sugar before baking for a sparkling effect. Alternatively, you can garnish them with thin slices of citrus or candied citrus peel after baking for a festive look. If you're a chocolate lover, dipping half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate can add an extra layer of indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 100g butter, softened
- 70g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one citrus (lemon, lime, or orange)
- 270g all-purpose flour
- 5g baking powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until it turns light and fluffy, achieving a pale white color.
- Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and citrus zest, mixing by hand until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing just until the dough comes together without overworking it.
- Shape and Chill the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently form it into a log or a flat disk.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to slice or roll out.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick cookies or roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Cooking Time:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these delightful Citrus-Infused Shortbread Cookies, a simple yet elegant treat that combines classic comfort with a refreshing twist!
