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Make meals with familiar flavors, simple ingredients, and fun shapes. Try chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, or veggie quesadillas.

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Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies -

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Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies

Imagine the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, mingling the zesty fragrance of lemon with the earthy notes of basil. These Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies are a unique twist on the classic shortbread recipe, combining the freshness of lemon and the herbaceous essence of basil to create a truly exceptional treat. In this article, we will delve into the world of lemon basil shortbread cookies, exploring how to make them, their cultural significance, and why they are a must-try for any cookie enthusiast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon basil shortbread cookies are not your average sweet treat. The marriage of flavors between the tangy lemon and the aromatic basil creates a symphony of taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you are a fan of easy-to-make recipes, gluten-free options, or vegan delights, these cookies tick all the boxes. Their versatility allows for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Moreover, the homemade touch to these cookies adds a level of warmth and love that store-bought treats simply cannot replicate. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of citrusy sweetness balanced by the subtle herbaceous undertones, making these cookies a standout in any dessert spread.

So, if you are looking to impress your guests with a unique and delectable treat or simply craving a delightful snack for yourself, these lemon basil shortbread cookies are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Ingredients

For this lemon basil shortbread cookies recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– All-purpose flour

– Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

– Lemon zest

– Salt

– Unsalted butter, softened

– Powdered sugar

– Vanilla extract

– Optional: Lemon juice for icing

Feel free to substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative for a gluten-free version of these cookies. You can also use plant-based butter to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, finely chopped basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.

2. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until incorporated.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

5. Roll out the dough into a log shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

6. Preheat the oven, slice the chilled dough into rounds, and bake until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Optional: Drizzle the cooled cookies with a lemon juice icing for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Expert Tips for Success

– Ensure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the right cookie texture.

– Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavors.

– For a more pronounced basil flavor, steep the chopped basil leaves in the melted butter before incorporating into the dough.

– Dusting the work surface with flour while rolling out the dough prevents sticking and makes shaping easier.

Variations and Substitutions

To customize these lemon basil shortbread cookies, consider the following variations:

– Substitute lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus twist.

– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.

– Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for unique flavor profiles.

– For a sugar-free option, replace powdered sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon basil shortbread cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously. For a more indulgent treat, sandwich two cookies with a scoop of lemon or basil ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. You can also serve them alongside a refreshing lemonade to complement the citrus notes in the cookies.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough log for up to a month. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.

Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?

A: When stored in an airtight container, these cookies can stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, these lemon basil shortbread cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is both approachable and rewarding. The subtle sweetness of the shortbread paired with the bright citrus and herbal notes makes these cookies a standout in the realm of gourmet treats.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that promises not only delicious cookies but also a newfound appreciation for the enchanting combination of lemon and basil. Try this recipe today and let the magic of these lemon basil shortbread cookies elevate your baking experience to new heights!

🍽️

Servings

⏱️

Prep time

20 minutes

🔥

Cooking time

12 minutes

📊

Calories

180 kcal

Experience a unique twist on classic shortbread cookies with the delightful combination of tangy lemon and aromatic basil. These Lemon Basil Shortbread Cookies are a refreshing and satisfying treat that will impress both guests and personal cravings.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons lemon zest
A pinch of salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon juice for icing (optional)

Directions

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, finely chopped basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Roll out the dough into a log shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven, slice the chilled dough into rounds, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Optional: Drizzle the cooled cookies with lemon juice icing for an extra burst of citrus flavor.