Lemon Shortbread
Lemon shortbread offers a buttery, crisp texture with a zing of lemon flavor, perfect for tea time or as a light, citrusy dessert for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the chilled butter, flour, and 10x sugar as for pie crust.
- Press the mixture firmly into an 8-inch square pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the shortbread is firm and light golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your butter is well-chilled before mixing. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dough, you can increase the 10x sugar up to 1 1/2 cups. For a citrus twist, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture. If you are out of 10x sugar, regular granulated sugar can be substituted, but the texture may differ slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon shortbreads are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with tea or coffee. For an elegant touch, dust with additional 10x sugar before serving. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added flavor. They make a wonderful addition to dessert platters or holiday cookie trays, inviting a variety of guests to enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the lemon shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the shortbread, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag, for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Shortbread contains roughly 403 calories, with 4g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the taste slightly. If using salted butter, you might want to reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe, if applicable.
What can I do if my shortbread is too crumbly?
If your shortbread dough is too crumbly, it may need a bit more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water or lemon juice to help bind it together. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Can I add flavor variations to the shortbread?
Absolutely! You can incorporate various flavors such as vanilla extract, almond extract, or even herbs like lavender for a unique twist. Just be cautious not to overpower the lemon flavor that is central to this recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).