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Flavorful Lemon Poppy Seed Glazed Shortbread Rounds

Lemon Poppy Seed Shortbread Rounds - featured image

Delicate, buttery shortbread rounds with a bright lemon glaze and crunchy poppy seeds, perfect for a simple yet impressive treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For the glaze:
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon milk or water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer or whisk by hand until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and finely grated lemon zest until evenly combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, folding gently until just combined into a soft, slightly crumbly dough.
  6. Roll the dough into a 2-inch (5 cm) diameter log, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick rounds and place them 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain pale.
  9. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  10. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk or water until smooth for the glaze.
  11. Spread the glaze over the cooled cookies with a spoon or brush and let set for about 30 minutes.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and maintain shape. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the shortbread tender. Glaze only when cookies are completely cool to prevent melting. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon shortbread, poppy seed cookies, lemon glaze, easy cookies, homemade shortbread, citrus cookies, buttery cookies