The Best Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookie Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic shortbread cookies, the best lemon basil shortbread cookie recipe is just what you need. These cookies combine the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with the aromatic, herbal notes of fresh basil, creating a unique treat that’s sure to impress. Perfect for an afternoon snack or as a gift, these cookies are both easy to make and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
To make the best lemon basil shortbread cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your lemon basil shortbread cookies:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even mixture.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Next, mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and chopped basil. Stir until evenly combined, allowing the fresh basil and lemon zest to infuse their flavors into the butter mixture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix; just blend until the flour is incorporated.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
To make shaping the cookies easier, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the butter firm up and enhance the flavor of the cookies.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it into small balls or shape it into logs for slicing. If you prefer, you can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as shortbread cookies are best when they remain light in color.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your lemon basil shortbread cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Storage Tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This lemon basil shortbread cookie recipe is an aromatic and zesty treat that adds a unique flavor profile to your cookie repertoire. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful snack at home, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful fusion of lemon and basil in every bite!