This lemon thyme shortbread is a crisp, buttery cookie with bright citrus flavor and a subtle herbal note. It comes together quickly in one bowl and bakes into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels elegant yet comforting, perfect for everyday baking or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is wonderfully simple and requires no mixer or complicated techniques. The combination of lemon zest, fresh thyme, and buttery shortbread creates a refined flavor that tastes bakery-worthy with minimal effort. It’s versatile enough for gifting, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack, and it stores beautifully for later enjoyment.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup very soft salted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 medium lemon
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons coarse sugar (sanding sugar, demerara, turbinado, or granulated sugar)
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish, optional
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch round or square cake pan and line it with parchment paper. Place the prepared pan on a foil-lined sheet pan and set aside.
In a medium-large bowl, combine the very soft butter, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds.
Add the flour, fresh thyme leaves, and kosher salt. Stir just until the flour is fully incorporated and a crumbly dough forms.
Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer, making sure the edges are compact. Sprinkle the top evenly with the coarse sugar.
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the top is lightly golden brown. Thicker shortbread will require the longer baking time.
Remove from the oven and carefully invert the shortbread onto a flat plate, then invert again so the sugared side faces up. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into wedges, squares, or rectangles while still warm. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 10 to 12 servings, depending on how it is sliced.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Baking time ranges from 35 to 45 minutes.
Total time is approximately 45 to 55 minutes.
Variations
For a sweeter cookie, add an extra tablespoon of granulated sugar to the dough.
Replace thyme with finely chopped rosemary or lavender for a different herbal note.
Add a light lemon glaze after baking for extra citrus sweetness.
Use an 8-inch pan for thicker, softer shortbread or a 9-inch pan for a slightly crisper result.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cooled shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the pieces in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh crispness, warm briefly in a low oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, simply add an extra ¼ teaspoon of salt to balance the flavor.
Do I need fresh thyme, or can I use dried?
Fresh thyme is recommended for best flavor, but dried thyme can be used in a smaller amount if necessary.
Why does the butter need to be very soft?
Very soft butter ensures the dough mixes easily by hand and creates a tender texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the shortbread can be baked a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.
How do I know when the shortbread is done?
The top should be lightly golden and set, with slightly darker edges.
Can I reduce the sugar?
The dough itself is lightly sweet; reducing the sugar may affect texture, but the topping can be adjusted.
What pan shape works best?
Both round and square pans work well; the thickness will depend on the pan size.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Why cut the shortbread while warm?
Cutting while warm prevents cracking and makes cleaner slices.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Absolutely, it travels well and stays fresh, making it ideal for sharing.
Conclusion
Ridiculously Easy Lemon Thyme Shortbread is a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a crisp, buttery cookie that feels special every time. Whether enjoyed at home or shared as a thoughtful gift, this shortbread is sure to become a favorite.
This Ridiculously Easy Lemon Thyme Shortbread is a buttery, crisp cookie infused with bright lemon zest and fresh thyme. It’s made in one bowl with no mixer, perfect for elegant snacking, gifting, or everyday treats.
Ingredients
1 cup very soft salted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 medium lemon
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons coarse sugar (sanding, demerara, turbinado, or granulated sugar)
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease and line an 8- or 9-inch round or square cake pan with parchment. Place on a foil-lined sheet pan.
In a medium bowl, mix soft butter, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth and creamy (about 30 seconds).
Add flour, thyme, and salt. Stir until just combined and a crumbly dough forms.
Press dough evenly into prepared pan. Compact edges and level the top. Sprinkle evenly with coarse sugar.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until lightly golden on top and slightly darker at edges.
Remove from oven and invert onto a flat plate, then again onto a cutting board so the sugared side is up.
While still warm, cut into wedges, squares, or rectangles. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Use fresh thyme for best flavor; dried thyme can be substituted in smaller amounts.
Add a lemon glaze after baking for more citrus punch.
Try rosemary or lavender in place of thyme for variation.
Cutting while warm ensures clean edges without cracking.
Shortbread stores well and is excellent for gifting.
