These Key Lime Cookies are soft, tangy, and bursting with the refreshing flavor of lime. With a hint of green for a pop of color and a sweet-tart frosting, these cookies are perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you’re craving a zesty treat. Plus, they’re easy to make and fun to decorate!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 8–10 minutes per batch
Total Time
- 45 minutes
Servings
- About 24 cookies (or 12 sandwich cookies)
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter , softened
- 1½ cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 3–4 tablespoons lime juice or key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lime
- Green food coloring (optional, for vibrant cookies)
For the Frosting:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup butter , softened
- 3–4 tablespoons lime juice
- Green food coloring (optional, for colored frosting)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Line baking sheets with aluminum foil (dull side up) or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg , then add the lime juice , lime zest , and vanilla extract . Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Add Food Coloring
- Add a few drops of green food coloring to the mixture if desired. Adjust the amount to achieve your preferred shade of green, keeping in mind the color will lighten as the cookies bake.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour , baking soda , baking powder , and salt .
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
- Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes , or until the edges are lightly browned. The cookies should be soft and slightly puffy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and lime juice , alternating between the two, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more lime juice if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Add a few drops of green food coloring to the frosting if desired for a festive look.
Step 7: Assemble the Cookies
- For sandwich cookies , spread a spoonful of frosting onto the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently to form a sandwich.
- For frosted cookies , spread frosting evenly over the tops of individual cookies.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the frosting to set before serving. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .
Pro Tips
- Key Lime Juice: If you can’t find key lime juice, regular lime juice works just as well.
- Color Variations: Use yellow or white frosting for a different look, or skip the food coloring entirely for a natural appearance.
- Make Ahead: Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months . Thaw and frost before serving.
- Extra Zest: Add extra lime zest to the frosting for an intensified citrus flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, based on 24 cookies)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Key Lime Cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, combining the bright, tangy flavor of lime with a soft, buttery texture. The optional green coloring adds a playful touch, while the sweet-tart frosting ties it all together. Whether you make them as sandwich cookies or frosted singles, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ready to bake a batch of these zesty, colorful treats? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor cookies that are soft, tangy, and utterly irresistible—they’re like sunshine in every bite!
