Florida Key Lime Cookies – A Tropical Delight Bursting with Zesty Citrus Flavor

For a cookie that embodies the bright, zesty flavors of a tropical getaway, Florida Key Lime Cookies are the perfect choice. These cookies have a light and crumbly texture, thanks to the perfect blend of key lime juice and zest, and are rolled in powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Each bite will transport you to a sun-soaked day by the beach, with the fresh and tangy flavor of lime dancing on your taste buds. Perfect for any citrus lover, these cookies are a must-bake treat.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

Photo bypinterest

The Inspiration Behind Florida Key Lime Cookies

There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet and tangy in these Florida Key Lime Cookies. Key limes are smaller and more aromatic than the standard lime, packing a powerful punch of flavor into every drop of juice. Combined with a buttery cookie base, these limes create a dessert that’s vibrant, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a fan of all things citrus or just looking for a unique cookie recipe to try, this one is bound to become a new favorite.

Why Florida Key Lime Cookies Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert

These cookies are a citrus lover’s dream come true. The tartness of the lime is balanced perfectly with the sweetness of powdered sugar, while the buttery crumb of the cookie adds a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. They’re light, flavorful, and ideal for serving at summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you need a bite of something refreshing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 24 Servings):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fiber: 1g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Key Lime Cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a cold glass of iced tea or a hot cup of coffee. If you’re hosting a party or gathering, they make a beautiful addition to a dessert platter, especially when arranged alongside other citrus treats like lemon bars or orange tarts. For a full tropical-themed dessert table, serve these cookies alongside coconut macaroons or pineapple tarts.

Photo bypinterest

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their freshness, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just let them thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh the powdered sugar, roll them again lightly before serving if needed.

Fun Fact: The Key Lime's Journey to Florida

Key limes were brought to the Florida Keys by Spanish explorers and have been a staple in tropical cuisine ever since. Known for their distinctive tart flavor and small size, key limes are a favorite ingredient in pies, drinks, and of course, cookies like these!

Cooking Tips

Make Them Extra Zesty: If you love the tartness of lime, add an extra tablespoon of lime zest to the dough for even more punchy citrus flavor.

The Perfect Roll: For an even coating of powdered sugar, roll the cookies a second time after they’ve cooled for a fully frosted look.

Keep the Dough Cold: To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough in the fridge for about 15 minutes before rolling it into balls and baking.

Optional Variations

Lemon-Lime Mix: For an extra citrusy treat, combine lime and lemon juice in the dough for a more layered flavor profile.

Coconut Key Lime: Mix in shredded coconut with the dough to create a tropical version of these cookies that combines two classic flavors.

Chocolate Drizzle: For a fancier presentation, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cookies before serving.

Photo bypinterest

Florida Key Lime Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, divided
• 1 large egg yolk
• ¼ cup fresh key lime juice (regular lime juice is fine)
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix in the egg yolk, lime juice, and lime zest until combined.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms.
6. Use your hands to knead the dough together until it forms a ball.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown. Check for doneness at 15 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool slightly.
10. While still warm, roll the cookies in the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar until well coated. Place back on the rack to cool completely.
11. Enjoy your zesty, powdered sugar-dusted key lime cookies!

Final Thoughts

Florida Key Lime Cookies offer the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, with a light and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a citrus craving, these cookies are guaranteed to impress!