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Citrus Shortbread Cookies

Citrus Shortbread Cookies Bursting with Flavorful Zest

Citrus Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat bursting with zesty flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds depth to flavor
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for structure
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt balances flavors
  • zest of 1 orange orange zest for vibrant flavor
  • zest of 1 lemon lemon zest for tangy brightness
  • to sprinkle granulated sugar for topping

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Electric Mixer
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Citrus Shortbread Cookies
  1. Gather all ingredients and allow unsalted butter to soften for about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, orange zest, and lemon zest.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Shape dough into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced 2 inches apart.
  6. Lightly sprinkle each cookie ball with granulated sugar.
  7. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are light golden brown. Centers should remain soft.
  8. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 8gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These cookies can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later. Experiment with different zests and mix-ins for variety.

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