Vegan Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup vegan butter, softened (such as Earth Balance or Miyoko’s)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
zest from two lemons
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas)
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions
Beat vegan butter, sugar, zest and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add aquafaba and stir just until blended.
Mix together flour and salt. Add to butter mixture and mix just until blended.
Divide dough in half and roll into cylinders (about a foot long). Place in refrigerator for two hours or up to five days.
Preheat oven to 350F.
Remove dough from fridge and unwrap. Slice into circles about 1/4 inch thick and place on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until just starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
Remove immediately to wire racks and let cool completely.
Once cookies are completely cooled, mix together the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle or spread over cookies.
Enjoy!

Introduction:

Indulge in the exquisite blend of citrusy zest and buttery richness with our Vegan Lemon Shortbread Cookies. This recipe is a celebration of sophisticated flavors and plant-based goodness, offering a delightful twist on the classic shortbread. As we embark on this culinary journey, rest assured that each step is crafted with precision to ensure a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Join us in exploring the meticulous details, valuable insights, and precise measurements for a cookie experience that transcends the ordinary.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Shortbread Cookies:

  • 1 cup vegan butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Incorporate Flavors:
    • Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined.
  4. Gradually Add Flour:
    • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix.
  5. Shape the Cookies:
    • Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface, roll each half into a log shape. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Slice and Bake:
    • Once chilled, slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake to Perfection:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  9. Drizzle with Elegance:
    • Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

  • Calories: ~120 kcal
  • Total Fat: ~6g
    • Saturated Fat: ~3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: ~40mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: ~15g
    • Dietary Fiber: ~0.5g
    • Sugar: ~7g
  • Protein: ~1g

Nutritional values based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Useful Information:

  • For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of additional lemon zest on top of the glaze.
  • Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
  • These Vegan Lemon Shortbread Cookies make for a delightful gift when placed in a decorative box or tin.

Conclusion:

Elevate your cookie experience with the refined taste of our Vegan Lemon Shortbread Cookies. These treats are a testament to the harmonious union of vegan ingredients and indulgent flavors. Share the joy of these cookies with loved ones or savor them as a sophisticated indulgence for yourself. With each bite, relish in the delightful balance of sweet and tangy notes, celebrating the artistry of plant-based baking at its finest.