There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the scent of citrus zest dancing through a sunlit kitchen, especially when it signals a batch of fresh Lime Sugar Cookies baking in the oven. Growing up, these cookies were a summer staple in our family. Every June, my grandmother would pull out her worn, handwritten recipe card, speckled with faint lime juice stains and faded ink. The citrusy aroma of fresh lime zest mingled with sugar and butter would fill the room, instantly transporting us to carefree days of lemonade stands, sun hats, and barefoot backyard adventures.

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These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a memory. A crisp on the outside, soft-on-the-inside memory that brings back sticky fingers and second helpings. The beauty of Lime Sugar Cookies lies in their simplicity. They’re refreshingly bright, subtly sweet, and offer a tangy twist on the classic sugar cookie we all know and love. Whether you’re baking a batch for a summer potluck or just craving a cheerful treat, these cookies are a perfect way to savor the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lime Sugar Cookies are sunshine in every bite. Their vibrant citrus flavor cuts through the sweetness, creating a balanced, refreshing cookie that feels like summer captured in dessert form. Here’s why they’re a keeper:

Bright Citrus Flavor: The fresh lime zest and juice elevate the sugar cookie base.
Soft and Chewy Texture: Thanks to a chill period and the right blend of leaveners.
Perfectly Simple: Made with everyday pantry ingredients—nothing fancy, just delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for cookouts, cookie swaps, or a cozy afternoon snack.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar (plus more for rolling)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 1 lime
2¾ cups all-purpose flour

HOW TO MAKE LIME SUGAR COOKIES

Making Lime Sugar Cookies is a joy in itself. Follow along, and you’ll have a kitchen that smells like citrus heaven and a plate of cookies that disappear faster than you’d expect.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s pale and fluffy. This aerates the mixture, giving your cookies a tender crumb.

2. Blend in the Essentials

Add in the baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Mix well. These ingredients work together to create that slightly crisp edge with a soft middle.

3. Add the Flavor

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract, then add the lime zest and juice. The lime should be bright and fragrant—don’t skip the zest, it’s where most of the lime’s aromatic oils live!

4. Stir in the Flour

Slowly mix in the flour until just combined. The dough will be soft but should hold its shape.

5. Chill Time

Wrap the dough in plastic or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This crucial step enhances flavor and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

6. Preheat and Prep

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. Roll and Coat

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for that signature sparkle and extra crunch.

8. Bake

Place on the baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes. The edges should just begin to turn golden while the centers stay soft.

9. Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies rest on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Then—taste test encouraged!

HELPFUL TIPS:

Use Room Temperature Butter for a creamier blend and smoother dough.
Don’t Overmix after adding the flour to keep your cookies tender.
Fresh Lime Only: Bottled juice lacks the vibrant flavor needed here.
Double Zest for Extra Zing: If you love lime, zest two limes instead of one.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: About 36 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

These cookies store well and make wonderful gifts. Add a simple powdered sugar-lime glaze if you want an extra fancy finish.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Cookie):

Calories: ~120
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 1

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I substitute lemon for lime?
Yes, but lemon will create a slightly milder flavor. Still delicious!

Is chilling the dough really necessary?
Absolutely. It firms the dough, enhances flavor, and prevents cookies from overspreading.

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Shape into balls and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze cookies or dough up to 3 months.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other citrus and cookie favorites:

CONCLUSION:

Baking these Lime Sugar Cookies is like bottling a bit of summer sunshine. Their cheerful lime zing, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and nostalgic feel make them a standout treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a sweet reward—and maybe a few new memories to go along with it.