Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread

Name: Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

Delightful and fragrant, these Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-20T09:01:50.689Z

These Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread cookies combine the bright flavor of Meyer lemons with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary. A perfect treat for any occasion, they bring a unique twist to traditional shortbread.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The unique combination of citrus and herb adds a refreshing twist.
Buttery texture that crumbles perfectly with each bite.
Ideal for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.

      

A Unique Flavor Profile

Meyer lemon and rosemary create a delightful flavor combination that is both refreshing and aromatic. Meyer lemons, known for their sweet and slightly tangy taste, provide a perfect citrusy backdrop for the earthy notes of rosemary. This unexpected pairing elevates traditional shortbread cookies, making them stand out in a crowd. Whether you're a fan of citrus or herbs, this recipe promises a unique taste experience that is sure to impress.

The addition of rosemary not only enhances the flavor but also adds an interesting visual element. The finely chopped herb speckles throughout the dough create a rustic appearance that is inviting. As the cookies bake, the aroma of lemon and rosemary fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sampling one straight from the oven!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread cookies are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a casual afternoon tea with friends, or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their elegant flavor profile pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages, from herbal teas to sparkling wines.

Additionally, the cookies can be beautifully packaged for gifting. Consider placing them in a decorative tin or wrapping them in cellophane tied with a ribbon for a personal touch. Your friends and family will appreciate the homemade goodness, and the unique flavor combination will leave a lasting impression.

Storage and Shelf Life

To ensure the freshness of your Meyer Lemon Rosemary Shortbread cookies, proper storage is essential. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored this way, they can last up to a week at room temperature, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.

If you want to enjoy these cookies for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature. This makes it easy to have a tasty treat on hand whenever a craving strikes!

Ingredients

For the Shortbread

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients and follow the steps below for delicious cookies!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the Meyer lemon zest and chopped rosemary.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape and Chill

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape into a log. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy!

These cookies are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and texture!

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture when creaming with the powdered sugar. If you forget to take your butter out in advance, you can cut it into small cubes and microwave it in short bursts until slightly softened, but be careful not to melt it.

When measuring the flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dense cookies. Fluff the flour in its container with a spoon, then gently spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delightful, feel free to experiment with variations! For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the dough. Alternatively, you can substitute other herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor profile that still complements the sweetness of the shortbread.

You could also dip half of each cookie in white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Allow the chocolate to set before serving for a delicious twist that adds richness to the already flavorful cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but Meyer lemons offer a sweeter and less acidic flavor.

→ How do I store the shortbread cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.

→ What can I serve with these cookies?

They pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, and can also be served alongside fresh fruit.