Key Lime Pie Thumbprint Cookies with Creamy Lime Filling
These Key Lime Pie Thumbprint Cookies feature a buttery, tender cookie base with a tangy and creamy lime filling, reminiscent of classic key lime pie. The delightful combination of buttery dough and zesty lime cream makes them irresistible treats perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Lime Filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (approximately 14 oz)
- ⅓ cup key lime juice
- 1 tbsp lime zest
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and use your thumb to press a deep indentation into the center of each ball to create the thumbprint.
- Prepare Lime Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and fully combined.
- Fill Cookies: Spoon a small amount of the creamy lime filling into each thumbprint indentation on the cookie dough balls, being careful not to overfill.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cookies on the center rack for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the lime filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack or serving plate. This ensures the filling sets properly and enhances texture.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best citrus flavor; bottled juice can be used in a pinch but may alter the taste.
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted to ensure proper texture in the dough.
- Press thumbprints deeply enough to hold sufficient filling without overflowing.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a decorative touch, garnish cookies with extra lime zest or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.