Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat: Christmas Lemon Shortbread! These little gems are not just your ordinary cookies; they bring a refreshing twist to the traditional buttery goodness we all love. Imagine biting into a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread that bursts with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. It’s like a cheerful burst of sunshine on a chilly winter day! I remember making these with my grandma every Christmas, and the aroma of fresh lemon zest would fill the kitchen, making the entire house feel festive. Trust me, these cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or just enjoying with a cozy cup of tea. They’re simple to whip up and will have everyone asking for the recipe! So, let’s get baking and bring some zesty cheer to your holidays!
Ingredients for Christmas Lemon Shortbread
You’ll want to gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up your delicious Christmas Lemon Shortbread:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure your butter is nice and soft, as this is key for that wonderfully creamy texture when you’re creaming it with the sugar. And don’t skip the lemon zest—it’s what gives these cookies that delightful, bright flavor that makes them so special! Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, we can move on to the fun part—baking!
How to Prepare Christmas Lemon Shortbread
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color we all crave.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and add your softened butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This is the part where you want to achieve that light, airy texture—trust me, it makes all the difference in your shortbread. You should see it turn a lovely pale yellow color!
Adding Zest and Vanilla
Next, it’s time to bring in the star flavors! Carefully mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Make sure to combine them thoroughly; you want that zesty aroma to mingle with the sweet buttery mixture. Ooh, I can already smell the holiday spirit!
Combining Dry Ingredients
Now, let’s sift in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Sifting helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth dough. Once sifted, gently mix until just combined. You don’t want to overwork the dough here; it should be a little crumbly but still hold together when pressed.
Shaping the Dough
Time to get your hands a little floury! Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls—about the size of a tablespoon works perfectly. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space to spread out a bit. Don’t worry about making them perfect; that rustic look adds to their charm!
Baking the Cookies
Here comes the exciting part! Using a fork, gently flatten each ball slightly—this helps them bake evenly. Pop them in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re just lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to overbake! Once they’re done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. And there you have it, your delightful Christmas Lemon Shortbread is ready to be enjoyed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why these Christmas Lemon Shortbread cookies are going to steal the show this holiday season! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone around. Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- Quick Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
- Zesty Flavor: The bright, refreshing taste of lemon zest adds a unique twist that makes these cookies stand out from regular shortbread. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite!
- Festive Appeal: Their buttery goodness and cheerful lemony scent fill your home with holiday spirit, making them a wonderful addition to any festive gathering.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re gifting them to friends, bringing them to a party, or just enjoying them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit everywhere!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare a batch ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand whenever the craving strikes!
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your holiday rotation for years to come!
Tips for Success with Christmas Lemon Shortbread
Oh, I’ve picked up some handy tips over the years to ensure your Christmas Lemon Shortbread turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little secrets can make a world of difference in your baking journey.
- Adjusting Lemon Zest: If you’re a lemon lover like me, feel free to increase the lemon zest for an extra zesty punch! Just remember, a little goes a long way, so taste as you go.
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is truly softened before creaming it with the sugar. If it’s too cold, you won’t achieve that dreamy, fluffy texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before you start!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely want them to be tender and crumbly!
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find your dough too soft to shape easily, don’t hesitate to pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps firm it up and makes shaping a breeze!
- Proper Storage: Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll last for about a week, but I doubt they’ll stick around that long! You can also freeze them—just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
With these little nuggets of wisdom, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delightful Christmas Lemon Shortbread. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for my delightful Christmas Lemon Shortbread! Each cookie is not only a treat but also packed with just the right amount of sweetness and flavor. Here’s what you can expect per cookie:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
So, while you indulge in these zesty cookies, you can enjoy them guilt-free, knowing they’re a delightful addition to your festive treats! Just remember, moderation is key—though, honestly, who can stop at just one? Happy munching!
FAQ about Christmas Lemon Shortbread
Got questions about my Christmas Lemon Shortbread? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I’ve come across. Let’s dive in!
How should I store these cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. Just remember, if you’re in a humid area, it’s best to keep them in the fridge to maintain that perfect texture!
Can I freeze Christmas Lemon Shortbread?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze wonderfully. Just let them cool completely, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste as good as fresh!
Can I adjust the lemon flavor?
Of course! If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add a bit more lemon zest. Just remember to taste as you go—too much can overpower the buttery goodness. You can also experiment with lemon extract for an added kick!
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
No problem at all! If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still yield delicious cookies!
Can I add anything else to these cookies?
Definitely! You can mix in some chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, for a nice crunch, or even some white chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just keep in mind that adding ingredients can alter the texture slightly, so adjust accordingly!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if you’re ready to get baking! I can’t wait for you to try these delightful cookies!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got a batch of Christmas Lemon Shortbread ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your cookie experience! These delightful treats pair perfectly with a variety of beverages and festive goodies that will make your holiday gatherings even more special.
- Tea Time: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea. The soothing flavors of tea complement the zesty lemon beautifully, creating a cozy afternoon treat.
- Holiday Coffee: A rich, creamy cup of coffee, especially with a hint of vanilla or hazelnut, will balance the sweetness of the cookies. You could even try a peppermint mocha for a festive twist!
- Hot Chocolate: For those chilly winter evenings, serve your shortbread alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa for the ultimate indulgence!
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or slices of orange not only add a pop of color to your table but also enhance the citrusy notes of your cookies. It’s a refreshing contrast that’s sure to please!
- Cheese Board: Create a simple cheese platter with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The creaminess of the cheese harmonizes with the buttery texture of the shortbread, making for a delightful pairing.
- Festive Desserts: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve these cookies alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread or spiced snickerdoodles. The variety will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more!
So go ahead, set up a beautiful spread and let the Christmas Lemon Shortbread shine alongside these delicious accompaniments. Your holiday gatherings are going to be a hit!
For more delicious recipes, check out this easy peach cobbler recipe or a delightful lemon dump cake!
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Christmas Lemon Shortbread: 5 Reasons to Love This Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive treat with a zesty twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the lemon zest and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Sift in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- These cookies can be frozen for later use.
- Adjust lemon zest to taste for more or less flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Christmas, Lemon, Shortbread, Cookies