If you’re in the mood for a cookie that’s refreshingly unique, these Lemon Lime Basil Italian Shortbread Cookies are just the thing. Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread gets a bright citrusy twist from lemon and lime, with just a whisper of fresh basil to make them extra special. They’re delicate yet flavorful, the kind of cookie that feels both fancy and comforting at the same time. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked on their fragrant, zesty charm!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Lime Basil Italian Shortbread Cookies

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a holiday tray, gifting to friends, or enjoying with your afternoon tea, these cookies fit any occasion. Here’s why they’re a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for any season and occasion, from brunches to cookie exchanges.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples with just a few fresh ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Comes together quickly with minimal fuss and ingredients.
Customizable: Switch up the citrus or herbs to create your own flavor combinations.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Lemon Lime Basil Italian Shortbread Cookies

Here’s the lineup that makes these cookies so delicious:
Butter: The key to that classic shortbread texture and rich flavor.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies hold their delicate crumb.
Lemon and Lime Zest: Bright, citrusy notes that make each bite pop.
Fresh Basil: Adds an unexpected, fragrant herbal twist.
Flour: The backbone of the cookie, giving it structure.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and highlight the citrus.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to the correct temperature and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients: Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the lemon zest, lime zest, and finely chopped basil. Add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Gather the dough into a ball and chill for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
Assemble the Dish: Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into your desired shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
Cook to Perfection: Bake until the edges are just barely golden, being careful not to overbake.
Finishing Touches: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack for the perfect shortbread texture.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve as is, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 110

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chill time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes (not including chill time)

How to Serve Lemon Lime Basil Italian Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are lovely with a cup of tea or coffee and make a great addition to a dessert platter. They’re also perfect for gifting—wrap them in a decorative tin or bag for a thoughtful homemade treat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness.
Make sure the basil is finely chopped so it blends seamlessly into the dough.
If you want even more citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon or lime juice to the dough.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh basil is best, but you can use 1/3 the amount if using dried.
2. Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
3. Do I need to chill the dough? Yes, chilling makes it easier to roll and helps prevent spreading.
4. Can I use only lemon or lime? Yes, using just one citrus fruit works perfectly fine.
5. Can I glaze these cookies? A simple lemon glaze drizzled on top is delicious.
6. Why are my cookies crumbly? This is normal for shortbread, but make sure you measure your flour correctly.
7. Can I add nuts? Chopped pistachios or almonds would be a great addition.
8. Can I use a food processor to make the dough? Yes, it’s a quick way to bring the dough together.
9. How do I know when they’re done? The edges should be pale golden but not browned.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just double all the ingredients and split the dough into two portions for easier handling.

Conclusion

These Lemon Lime Basil Italian Shortbread Cookies are as unique as they are delicious. With their buttery base, zesty citrus flavor, and subtle basil undertone, they’re the perfect cookie for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a holiday spread, a special gift, or simply to brighten your day, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite!

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