Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies – Buttery & Bright

Last updated on July 30, 2025

Have you ever found yourself craving a cookie that feels like a warm hug? A treat that whispers sweet nothings of nostalgia and delight with every crumb? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I baked lemon thyme shortbread cookies. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was looking for something to lift my spirits. Little did I know that mixing thyme with sweet lemon zest would create a symphony of flavors that would forever echo in my kitchen.

You’re probably thinking that baking can be daunting, especially if you’re a novice in the kitchen. But don’t fret! This post is designed just for you—I’m here to assure you that making lemon thyme shortbread cookies is not only simple but also incredibly enjoyable. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, even if it’s your first baking adventure, you’ll find that creating these lovely cookies can be stress-free and totally doable.

Why I Love This Recipe of Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

Lemon thyme shortbread cookies hold a special place in my heart. They meld the bright, refreshing taste of lemon with the earthy notes of thyme—two flavors that, when combined, create an irresistible experience. There’s something so cozy and comforting about shortbread; it’s a classic, but when you add that zing of lemon and the herbaceous hints of thyme, it becomes something entirely unique.

What’s great about this recipe is that it’s approachable, even for beginner cooks. The recipe includes simple steps that don’t require any fancy equipment or techniques—just your hands and a trusty mixing bowl. The cozy aroma that fills your kitchen as these cookies bake will make your heart sing, and the end result is not just delicious cookies, but a delightful experience that will fill you with pride. Trust me, after your first bite, you’ll understand why I can’t stop raving about these little gems.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to whip up your batch of lemon thyme shortbread cookies.

Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 57 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies are a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a delicate balance of citrus and herbal flavors. The lemon zest and fresh thyme make them refreshingly aromatic and perfect for tea time or any time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Essentials:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225g)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (68g)
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (260g)
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tbsp dried thyme)
  • 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract or lemon extract
• Optional Add-ons:
  • Chopped pistachios
  • Drizzle of dark chocolate (after baking)

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Instructions

1. Make the Lemon Thyme Sugar: Use a mortar and pestle or food processor to grind together the granulated sugar, lemon zest, and thyme until fragrant and well blended.
2. Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the lemon thyme sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Incorporate the Powdered Sugar: Add the powdered sugar and beat until fully combined.
4. Mix in the Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix slowly, then knead by hand until a cohesive dough forms.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
6. Roll Out and Cut: On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/3-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies on a lined sheet for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool: Let cookies rest on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Use fresh thyme for the most aromatic results, but dried thyme works in a pinch.
• Don’t skip chilling—the dough firms up and bakes more evenly.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Optional drizzle of dark chocolate adds a delicious twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 30 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: lemon thyme shortbread, herbal cookies, shortbread, lemon cookies, thyme cookies, tea cookies, citrus desserts

Essentials

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 grams): Use unsalted butter for a more controlled flavor. It’s essential to ensure it’s softened to room temperature so it creams well with the sugars.

• ½ cup icing or powdered sugar (60 grams): This sugar will give your cookies their delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: For added sweetness, this will also help in creating that lovely lemon thyme sugar mixture.

• ½ cup cornstarch (68 grams): Cornstarch helps to lighten the texture of the cookies, giving them that desired shortbread quality.

• 1 pinch salt: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (260 grams): This is the base of your cookie, providing structure.

• Zest from one lemon: Fresh lemon zest is key. It releases essential oils that contribute that vibrant lemon flavor.

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ tablespoon dried thyme: Fresh herbs add a fragrant note, while dried can substitute if you don’t have fresh on hand.

• ½ tablespoon vanilla extract or lemon extract: For an extra punch of flavor, especially if you want an even sharper lemon presence.

Optional Add-ons

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add in a chopped pistachio or a drizzle of dark chocolate on top of the cookies after baking for an extra twist that still complements the main flavors.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

• If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought lemon extract to quicken the flavor profile.
• For a dairy-free version, you can try a plant-based butter stick.
• In place of corn starch, a slightly larger amount of powdered sugar can also yield a similar texture, though it may sweeten the cookie more than intended.

How to Make Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies Step-by-Step

Let’s jump into the cozy, rewarding process of making these flavorful treats!

1. Make the Lemon Thyme Sugar

The flavor starts with the sugar. In your mortar and pestle—or a food processor if you prefer—combine the granulated sugar with the fresh thyme leaves and the zest of the lemon. Mash and grind until the thyme and zest are well incorporated into the sugar, and you can begin to smell the fragrant blend. This step is crucial as it infuses the sugar with all those beautiful herbal and citrus notes.

2. Cream the Butter

In a mixing bowl, cream your softened butter with the lemon thyme sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. As you beat the butter, you’ll notice it turning a pale color, which means you’re on the right track!

3. Incorporate the Powders

Now, add the powdered sugar to the creamed mixture. Beat until it’s well mixed—this ensures each bite of your cookie will be sweetly satisfying.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, sift in the all-purpose flour and the cornstarch. Mix slowly at first to avoid a flour explosion! Once it starts to come together, you’ll want to dig in and really knead with your hands. This might get a little messy, but it’s totally worth it! Keep mixing until the dough forms into a ball. You want it to be cohesive but not stick to your hands.

5. Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough ball in plastic wrap and place it into the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps in achieving that delightful crumbly texture after baking.

6. Roll Out and Cut

With a lightly floured surface, carefully roll your dough out to about 1/3 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to cut out cookies. This is your chance to be creative!

7. Bake your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake them; you want them tender and slightly soft in the middle.

8. Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

And voilà! You have your lemon thyme shortbread cookies ready to be devoured.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

Even seasoned bakers can make mistakes, so here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Measuring Missteps

Using incorrect measurements can lead to cookies that are too crumbly or too soft. Always ensure your ingredients are measured accurately.

Chilling is Key

Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s crucial for creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture. If the dough isn’t chilled enough, you may end up with misshapen cookies that spread too much in the oven.

Overmixing

When adding in the flour, resist the urge to overmix. Once you can incorporate everything and the dough forms, stop mixing. Overworking the dough can lead to dense cookies rather than light, tender ones.

Baking Time

Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven runs a little differently. Check for the golden edges and slightly soft centers; this indicates they are done.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

These flavorful cookies can be enjoyed in many delightful ways:

With Tea

Pair your lemon thyme shortbread cookies with a steaming cup of herbal or green tea. The light citrus flavor of the cookies makes for a refreshing match!

As a Gift

Wrap them beautifully in a box or a tin and gift them to friends or family. A homemade treat like this, especially with such unique flavor notes, will surely be cherished.

Dessert Platter

Serve them alongside other cookies on a rustic platter. Their unique flavor will stand out, inviting curiosity and praises from guests.

Crumbled Over Dessert

For an added twist, try crumbling the cookies over vanilla ice cream or yogurt. The combination of tangy lemon and crunchy thyme will elevate even the simplest desserts!

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Feeling confident and ready to elevate your lemon thyme shortbread cookies? Here are some pro tips:

Experiment with Zest

Try using lime or orange zest for a different citrus spin! Each citrus will impart its own unique flavor to the cookies.

Adjust Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet shortbread, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar in the dough. This allows the herbal and lemon flavors to shine.

Double it Up

If you’re making these for an event or gathering, consider doubling the recipe. They’re bound to go quickly!

Store Properly

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long once you have them out!

Conclusion & Next Steps

Baking lemon thyme shortbread cookies is easier than it looks! It’s a recipe that allows you to express creativity while enjoying a cozy culinary experience. Remember, you can customize it to your tastes or ingredients on hand. Whether you stick with the classic or make it your own, you’re in for a treat that’s as comforting as it is tasty.

So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these delightful cookies! Trust me—your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your baking adventures or any twists you made to the recipe! I’d love to hear how your lemon thyme shortbread cookies turned out.

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FAQs About Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies