Name: Chewy Sesame Shortbread with Citrus Zest
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 150 g unsalted butter, softened; 100 g granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 250 g all-purpose flour; 50 g sesame seeds; Zest of 1 medium citrus fruit (orange, lemon, or lime); ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; Additional sesame seeds for garnish (optional); Citrus sugar (mix granulated sugar with additional zest for a sprinkle) (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Chewy Sesame Shortbread with Citrus Zest

No ratings yet

Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on a classic! Our Chewy Sesame Shortbread with Citrus Zest brings together the nutty flavor of sesame with fresh, zesty notes that dance on your palate. This easy-to-make dessert can be enjoyed in neat pieces any time of day, perfect for sharing with family or keeping for yourself! Feel free to mix and match your favorite citrus—orange, lemon, or even lime—to create the flavor you love best.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 55

Servings: 12

Course: Cookies Biscuits

Cuisine: Snack

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

150 g unsalted butter, softened
100 g granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
250 g all-purpose flour
50 g sesame seeds
Zest of 1 medium citrus fruit (orange, lemon, or lime)
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
Additional sesame seeds for garnish optional
Citrus sugar (mix granulated sugar with additional zest for a sprinkle) optional

Equipment

Heatproof mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
20 cm (8 inch) square baking tray
Baking tray lined with parchment paper
Chef's knife
Wire rack

Method

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sesame seeds, and citrus zest.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a log about 5 cm (2 inches) in diameter.
Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to firm up.
After chilling, slice the log into 1 cm (½ inch) thick rounds. Place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each piece.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a delightful twist, consider substituting the sesame seeds with poppy seeds, or adding a hint of almond extract for extra flavor.
These shortbreads store well in an airtight container for up to a week, and they can be frozen for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Feel free to experiment with various citrus fruits or even toss in some chocolate chips for a unique take on this cookie recipe.
Happy baking!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Chewy Sesame Shortbread with Citrus Zest