Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies: A Zesty, Fruity Delight in Every Bite

If you’re a fan of light, buttery cookies with a hint of citrus and sweet bursts of blueberry, these Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies are going to be your new favorite treat. The tart lemon zest perfectly complements the juicy sweetness of dried blueberries, while the buttery shortbread melts in your mouth, creating a cookie that’s truly irresistible.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies have long been a classic favorite, loved for their crumbly texture and buttery richness. But these Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies take things to the next level by introducing a fresh, fruity twist. With vibrant lemon zest and plump dried blueberries, these cookies are both refreshing and indulgent at the same time. They’re perfect for any occasion—from teatime treats to delightful snacks after dinner. The key is in the balance of flavors: the sweetness of the blueberries, the zing of the lemon, and the rich buttery base.

Why Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies Will Become Your Go-To Treat

These cookies have the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttery shortbread base is tender and slightly crisp around the edges, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness to every bite. The blueberries, after being soaked in apple juice or water, plump up beautifully and provide a chewy, sweet surprise in every cookie. Plus, they’re simple to make and can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or served at special occasions. Whether you're hosting a tea party or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Based on 24 Cookies):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg

These cookies are rich in flavor, so you don’t need a huge portion to be satisfied. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with a cup of hot tea or a frothy cappuccino for an afternoon pick-me-up. You can also present them alongside fresh fruit, like raspberries or strawberries, to enhance the fruity flavors. If you want to get a bit fancy, dust them with powdered sugar before serving, or dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate for a decadent twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them warm, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth. If you need to store them longer, they freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

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Fun Fact: The Secret to Perfect Shortbread

The key to achieving that perfect, crumbly texture in shortbread is in the butter. Make sure to use high-quality, unsalted butter at room temperature for the best results. The butter not only gives the cookies their rich flavor, but it also helps create that delicate texture that melts in your mouth. And don’t forget the little sprinkle of sugar on top—this adds just a touch of sweetness and a nice, subtle crunch!

Cooking Tips

• Soak the Blueberries: Soaking the dried blueberries in apple juice or water before baking helps them plump up and stay juicy while baking. This step is essential for ensuring they don’t dry out in the oven.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and you want your shortbread to be tender and crumbly.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough is too soft to handle, chill it for about 30 minutes in the fridge before scooping and baking. This will make it easier to work with and will help the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Optional Variations

• White Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies. The sweet creaminess of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart lemon and blueberries.
• Lemon Glaze: If you’re a fan of more lemony flavor, whip up a simple lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little lemon juice. Drizzle it over the cookies once they’re cooled for a zesty finish.
• Almond Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cookie dough for a subtle nutty flavor that complements the blueberries and lemon.

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Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup dried blueberries
• 1 tablespoon apple juice or water
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Finely grated zest from 2 small lemons
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup white sugar, plus additional for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Prep the Blueberries: Combine dried blueberries and apple juice (or water) in a microwave-safe cup or bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 45 seconds. Set aside to cool. The blueberries will absorb the liquid and plump up slightly.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (150°C) and line two sheet pans with parchment paper.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Stir in the cooled blueberries and set aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together and is fully combined.
6. Scoop the Cookies: Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared sheet pans, spacing the cookies about 1 ½ inches apart.
7. Sprinkle with Sugar and Bake: Lightly sprinkle the tops of the cookies with additional sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Blueberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful fusion of tart, sweet, and buttery flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them with a quiet cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to brighten your day! The zesty lemon and juicy blueberries make these shortbread cookies truly stand out from the crowd. Happy baking!