Lime Sugar Cookies Recipe
If you are looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, these Lime Sugar Cookies are exactly what you need to brighten your day and please your taste buds. Bursting with zesty lime flavor balanced by a tender, sweet crumb, these cookies bring a fresh and vibrant sparkle to any cookie jar. The zing from the lime zest and juice, combined with a subtle vanilla undertone and a light glaze, transforms a simple sugar cookie into a mouthwatering treat you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Lime Sugar Cookies. From the richness of butter to the brightness of fresh lime zest, every element helps build that iconic crisp-yet-soft texture and irresistible flavor that make these cookies stand out.
- ½ cup butter (softened): Provides a creamy base that keeps the cookies tender and moist.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the crispy edges when baked.
- ¼ tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently for a light texture.
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar: Adds a slight tang that enhances the lime flavor and supports texture.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
- 1 egg: Binds the dough together and adds richness.
- ½ tsp vanilla: Adds depth and warmth to the bright lime notes.
- 1 lime (all juice and zest): The star ingredient that infuses the cookies with fresh citrus zing.
- 1 ½ cups flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cookies.
- 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional): Adds a fun pop of color reflecting the lime flavor.
- 1 tbsp butter (melted, for glaze): Creates a smooth base for the lime glaze.
- 1 lime (juice only, for glaze): Packs intense lime flavor into the sweet topping.
- ¼-⅓ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.
How to Make Lime Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter and sugar together using a mixer for about 2 to 3 minutes. This is key because creaming them until fluffy traps air, giving your Lime Sugar Cookies a light and tender texture when baked. Make sure the butter is soft but not melted for the best consistency.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt to the creamed mixture. These ingredients are small in quantity but mighty in function—they help ensure your cookies rise just right while giving a subtle tang that complements the lime zest.
Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Lime
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly to enrich the dough. Then zest one lime directly into the mixture, capturing all those aromatic citrus oils. Squeeze all the juice from the same lime into the dough for an extra burst of fresh flavor that truly defines these Lime Sugar Cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Chill
Slowly add the flour while continuing to mix until everything is just combined into a soft dough. Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for 2 hours—chilling is crucial because it firms up the dough and helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.
Step 5: Form and Sugar Coat
Once chilled, scoop the dough by the tablespoon and roll each portion into a smooth ball. Roll these dough balls in granulated sugar until they’re fully coated. This sugar coating not only adds an extra crunch but also gives the cookies a beautiful sparkle when baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on a cookie sheet and bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cookies are done when they’re lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center, ensuring that perfect chewy bite.
Step 7: Prepare the Lime Glaze
While the cookies bake, mix melted butter and fresh lime juice together to start your glaze. Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring with a fork until you reach the desired thickness. A thin glaze is perfect for drizzling with a spoon, while a thicker glaze can be spread with a knife. This glaze adds a gorgeous shine and intensified lime flavor to the warm cookies.
Step 8: Glaze the Cookies
Right after taking the cookies out of the oven, while they are still warm, brush or drizzle the lime glaze on top. This step lets the glaze set beautifully and sink just a bit into the cookie, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.
How to Serve Lime Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
To elevate these Lime Sugar Cookies even further, try sprinkling additional lime zest or delicate candied lime slices on top of the glaze. A light dusting of extra powdered sugar or finely chopped fresh mint leaves can also add a pretty touch and extra burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of lemonade or a hot cup of green tea, making the citrus notes shine even brighter. For a more indulgent approach, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to mellow out their citrus tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Gift these Lime Sugar Cookies in a clear jar layered with lime slices and sprigs of mint for a delightful homemade present. Alternatively, arrange them on a bright platter with edible flowers or alongside other citrus-themed desserts for a vibrant party spread that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Lime Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread into the container helps maintain moisture, preventing the cookies from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a tray until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can bake fresh lime-scented cookies whenever the craving hits. Baked cookies freeze well too in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Warm frozen or stored Lime Sugar Cookies briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore that freshly baked softness and highlight those aromatic lime notes.
FAQs
Can I substitute the lime with lemon?
Absolutely! While lime is the star here, using fresh lemon juice and zest will give you a similar bright and tangy flavor, creating delicious Lemon Sugar Cookies with that same wonderful texture.
Do I have to use food coloring in the dough?
Nope! The food coloring is purely for visual effect to hint at the lime flavor inside. Your Lime Sugar Cookies will taste just as amazing without any color added.
Is the glaze necessary on the cookies?
The glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and citrus zing, but these cookies are tasty even without it. If you prefer a simpler cookie, feel free to skip it or dust with powdered sugar instead.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure the dough is well chilled before baking. Cooling the dough firms it up, reducing spreading and helping the cookies keep their shape.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the dough cohesive.
Final Thoughts
These Lime Sugar Cookies are a vibrant and truly addictive treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking arsenal. The bright lime flavor paired with a soft, sugary bite is simply irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the joy of these sunny cookies with your friends and family!
Print
Lime Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lime Sugar Cookies are zesty and sweet treats with a refreshing burst of lime flavor. These soft, buttery cookies are enhanced with lime zest and juice, and can be optionally glazed with a tangy lime icing, making them perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1–2 drops green food coloring (optional)
Glaze
- 1 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 lime (juice)
- ¼–⅓ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt, mixing well to incorporate all dry ingredients evenly.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Add Lime Zest and Juice: Zest one lime and add the zest to the dough. Squeeze the juice from the lime and mix it in thoroughly to infuse the dough with citrus flavor.
- Mix in Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and continue mixing until the dough is smooth. Optionally, add 1-2 drops of green food coloring for a festive look. Chill the dough in an airtight container for 2 hours to firm up.
- Prepare Cookie Balls: After chilling, scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat evenly for a slightly crisp exterior.
- Bake Cookies: Place the sugar-coated dough balls spaced apart on a cookie sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix melted butter and freshly squeezed lime juice. Slowly add powdered sugar while stirring with a fork until desired glaze consistency is reached. The glaze will be tangy with a strong lime flavor.
- Glaze Cookies: While cookies are still warm, drizzle or spread a small amount of glaze on each cookie. Allow glaze to set before serving. Enjoy your lime sugar cookies!
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to help the cookies maintain their shape and deepen the flavors.
- Green food coloring is optional and adds a festive touch but does not impact flavor.
- Use fresh limes for the best citrus flavor in both the dough and the glaze.
- The glaze is potent, so use sparingly to avoid overpowering the cookie’s sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 25g)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: lime sugar cookies, lime dessert, citrus cookies, sugar cookies recipe, lime zest cookies, baked lime cookies
