Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 large lemon
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps create the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookies.

Step 2: Add the Lemon and Vanilla

Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The zest contains essential oils that intensify the lemon flavor, while the juice adds a mild tangy touch.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a log or flatten it into a disc, then wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to shape the cookies. If you prefer, you can simply slice rounds from the dough log.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Shortbread should remain pale but firm.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Optional Lemon Glaze

For an extra lemony touch, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 140
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1.5g