Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened. 1/2 cup powdered sugar. 1 tablespoon key lime zest. 2 tablespoons fresh key lime juice. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. 2 cups all-purpose flour. 1/4 teaspoon salt. 1/2 cup cornstarch. Green food coloring optional. Additional powdered sugar for rolling.
Instructions: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the key lime zest, fresh key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly colored. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm. Preheat the oven to 350F 175C. Slice the chilled dough logs into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in additional powdered sugar to coat. Store Key Lime Meltaways in an airtight container. Enjoy these zesty and melt-in-your-mouth cookies!
