Print

Cozy Lemon Poppy Seed Shortbread Cookies

lemon poppy seed shortbread cookies - featured image
Print Recipe

Buttery, crumbly shortbread cookies with fresh lemon zest and a delightful crunch from poppy seeds, perfect for a cozy treat any time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch for a softer texture

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick silicone mat.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, salt, and optional cornstarch.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or folding by hand until just combined.
  6. Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Remove the dough from the fridge and slice into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick rounds. Arrange them on the baking sheet about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are just turning golden and centers are set but still soft to the touch. Start checking at 16 minutes if your oven runs hot.
  9. Transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely and crisp up before serving.

Notes

Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading. Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep cookies tender. Optional cornstarch can be added for a softer texture. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 2 days or frozen up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon poppy seed cookies, shortbread cookies, lemon zest cookies, easy homemade cookies, buttery cookies, poppy seed shortbread

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/cozy-lemon-poppy-seed-shortbread-cookies-easy-homemade-recipe-for-perfect-treats/