Can I use store-bought lime curd instead of homemade?

Yes! Store-bought lime curd saves time and still gives that tangy citrus punch. Just make sure it's thick enough to hold its shape while baking.

Why did my lime curd turn out runny?

It likely wasn’t cooked long enough. Continue stirring over low heat until it coats the back of a spoon before cooling.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Let it soften slightly before baking.

How do I get a stronger lime flavor?

Add extra lime zest or a few drops of pure lime extract to the dough for an even more vibrant flavor.

Can I substitute lemon or orange for lime?

Absolutely! Lemon makes the cookies brighter and milder, while orange creates a sweeter, tropical twist.

Zesty Soft & Chewy Lime Curd Cookies

Name: Zesty Soft & Chewy Lime Curd Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: sugar; lime zest; egg yolks; salt; lime juice; butter; sugar; lime zest; butter; eggs; lemon juice; vanilla extract; flour; baking powder; salt

These zesty lime curd cookies combine a tangy homemade lime curd with a soft and chewy cookie base. Perfect for summer picnics, bake sales, or when you crave a bright citrus treat that melts in your mouth.

Lime Curd Cookies

Lime curd cookies are a delightful fusion of tangy lime curd and soft, chewy cookies. Inspired by the classic lemon curd, these cookies offer a unique twist with the sharp and vibrant flavors of lime. The combination of the zesty lime curd center with the chewy cookie exterior makes every bite a refreshing experience. But what exactly goes into making these delightful treats?

Ingredients

Lime Curd

100 g caster/superfine or granulated sugar
Zest of 2 limes
3 US large/UK medium egg yolks, room temperature
¼ tsp salt
60 g freshly squeezed lime juice
55 g unsalted butter, cubed

For the Lime Cookies

150 g caster/superfine or granulated sugar
Zest of 2 limes
115 g unsalted butter
2 large eggs, room temperature
30 g freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
240 g all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt

Crafting the Lime Curd Cookies

Making the Lime Curd

Begin by preparing the lime curd. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lime zest, and salt.
Heat the lime juice in a small saucepan until it starts to bubble. Gradually pour the hot lime juice into the yolk mixture, whisking continuously to temper the egg yolks.
Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the cubed butter until it's fully melted and incorporated. Allow the curd to cool in the refrigerator.

Making the Cookie Dough

For the cookie dough, cream together the sugar and room temperature butter until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, lime juice, and vanilla extract to the mixture and whisk until combined.
Sift in the flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Top each cookie with a dollop of the chilled lime curd.
Bake the cookies at 170°C for 12-15 minutes or until they turn slightly golden. Ensure they don't overbake to prevent the curd from burning.
Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.

What to Pair with Lime Curd Cookies

Lime curd cookies are versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages and desserts. Consider serving them with a cold glass of milk, a cup of herbal tea, or even alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you're unable to find certain ingredients, here are some potential substitutes:

Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be a suitable replacement, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Unsalted Butter: If you only have salted butter on hand, simply omit the additional salt from the recipe.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cookie

For an added touch, sprinkle some graham cracker crumbs on top of the cookies before baking. This gives them a hint of lime pie flavor.
If you prefer a more vibrant green color for your lime curd, consider adding a drop or two of green food coloring.
For added sweetness, you can either dust the cookies with icing sugar after baking or roll the cookie dough in sugar granules after shaping.

Nutrition Information

Based on a serving size of 30g, this cookie will contain approximately:

Calories: 120
Carbohydrate Content: 18g
Cholesterol Content: 40mg
Fat Content: 5g
Protein Content: 2g
Saturated Fat Content: 3g
Sodium Content: 80mg
Sugar Content: 10g
Trans Fat Content: 0g
Unsaturated Fat Content: 2g

Note these values are estimates only and should not be used for dietary or medical requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store lime curd cookies?

While they're best enjoyed fresh, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze the lime curd for later use?

Absolutely! Lime curd can be frozen for several months. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container.

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?

Chilling the cookie dough before baking can help prevent excessive spreading. If your cookies still spread too much, consider adding a bit more flour to the dough.