Key Lime Pie Cookies

Key lime pie cookies are everything you love about the classic dessert but in a bite-sized, handheld form. These cookies bring together the buttery richness of a soft-baked cookie with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lime. They’re easy to make, bursting with tropical vibes, and perfect for any occasion—think backyard barbecues, birthday parties, or a cozy afternoon snack.

With simple ingredients and a big payoff in flavor, this recipe is about to become your go-to for satisfying sweet cravings with a citrusy twist. Grab some limes, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake the ultimate cookie!

If you’re a cookie lover, you’ll adore these! Try the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies for a creamy fruity treat, the 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies for something quick and nutty, or the Banana Vanilla Pudding Cookies for a soft, sweet delight

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Why You’ll Love These Key Lime Pie Cookies

• Easy to make: You don’t need a pie pan or a mixer for these goodies.
• Tropical vibes: The lime zest and juice bring a fresh, summery feel.
• Crowd-pleaser: These are perfect for BBQs, picnics, or just a weekend treat.
• Sweet and tangy: The perfect balance of buttery sweetness and limey zing.

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Can I Use Regular Limes to Replace Key Limes?

Of course, you can use regular limes in place of key limes for these cookies! While key limes have a distinct, slightly more intense and floral flavor, regular limes will still give you that tangy, citrusy taste. The difference is subtle, and most people won’t even notice. Just use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor, no matter which type of lime you choose.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp lime zest (for garnish)
• Optional: Crushed graham crackers for a pie-like crunch

Equipment & Tools Needed for Key Lime Pie Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious cookies:

• Mixing Bowls: One large and one medium for wet and dry ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy.
• Citrus Zester: Essential for getting fine, fragrant lime zest.
• Juicer: A handheld or electric juicer to extract fresh lime juice.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of wet and dry ingredients.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Perfect for mixing and folding the dough.
• Baking Sheets: Two standard sheets, lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Cookie Scoop: Helps portion dough evenly for uniform cookies.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Keeps cookies from overbaking on the hot pan.

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How to Make Key Lime Pie Cookies

1. Get Ready: Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, you mix the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer (or by hand) until they become light and airy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Liquids: Beat in the egg. Then you add the key lime juice and lime zest, mixing well after each addition.
4. Combine Dry and Wet: In another bowl, you mix the flour, baking soda, then salt using a whisk. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Form and Bake: Scoop rounded tablespoons of the dough and put them on the baking sheets, leaving approximatively two inches between each cookie. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly brown. After baking, let them sit on the pan for 5 minutes, then move them all to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Finish the Cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Add a bit of lime zest or some crushed graham crackers to give them an extra special look and taste.

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Tips for Perfect Key Lime Pie Cookies

Fresh limes are key: Bottled lime juice just won’t have the same zing.

Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the cookies dense—stir until the flour disappears.

Chill the dough if needed: If the dough feels too soft, try to chill it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before baking.

Garnish for the win: A sprinkle of lime zest or graham cracker crumbs makes these cookies look (and taste) like a slice of pie!

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How to Serve Key Lime Pie Cookies

Key lime pie cookies are versatile and pair perfectly with a refreshing drink or creamy dessert. Serve them with lemonade,a glass of iced tea or even a citrusy mocktail for a tropical vibe. For a more indulgent treat, sandwich two cookies with vanilla ice cream or dollop whipped cream on the side. Hosting a party? Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over your cookies then arrange them on a platter for a pie-inspired presentation everyone will love!

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Storing Key Lime Pie Cookies

To keep your key lime pie cookies fresh and soft, you store them in an airtight container at the room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, place them in the fridge where they’ll stay good for about a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Before enjoying frozen cookies, let them defrost at room temperature for 30 minutes. To keep them soft, store them with a slice of bread in the container – it works surprisingly well!

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FAQs About Key Lime Pie Cookies

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These Key Lime Pie Cookies are an amazing dessert for lime lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike. They’re easy to bake, full of flavor, and perfect for any gathering—or just enjoying at home with a cup of coffee. With their buttery texture, tangy lime flavor, and a hint of sweetness, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. These cookies will deliver a burst of tropical happiness in every bite.

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