Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars

Name: Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats Recipes

I absolutely love making these Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars! The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant thyme creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. While the process is simple, the addition of fresh thyme elevates the traditional shortbread to something exceptional. Every bite is a balance of buttery richness and refreshing citrus, making these bars a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them with a cup of tea, they are sure to impress with their unique flavor profile.

Created by

Jackies

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:10:28.494Z

When I first experimented with adding thyme to my shortbread recipe, I couldn't believe how much depth it added. The aromatic herb pairs surprisingly well with the brightness of lemon, making each bite a soothing combination of flavors. One key tip is to zest the lemon right before using it; this ensures the oils come through, adding extra flavor.

Another thing I've discovered is that letting the bars cool in the refrigerator before cutting helps them hold together better. The contrast between the crisp edges and the tender center is what makes these bars so appealing. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple!

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        The refreshing zing of lemon balanced with earthy thyme
A melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture that’s irresistible
Perfectly portioned for sharing – or keeping all to yourself!

      

The Role of Fresh Thyme

In this Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars recipe, the fresh thyme adds a unique depth of flavor that enhances the brightness of the lemon. While dried thyme could be used in a pinch, fresh thyme provides a more vibrant and aromatic taste that transforms the buttery shortbread into an elevated treat. Make sure to chop the thyme finely, as larger pieces can overpower the delicate balance of flavors. You’ll want the thyme to meld seamlessly into the dough, offering subtle hints of its herbaceous qualities with each bite.

Thyme is also known for its aromatic oils, which release during baking, creating a fragrant kitchen and a more complex flavor profile when combined with citrus. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with other fresh herbs, such as rosemary or lavender, to create your own variations of this recipe. Just remember that other herbs will impart different flavors, so use them wisely to ensure they complement rather than compete with the lemon.

Essential Techniques for Perfect Bars

Achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture with shortbread bars relies heavily on your creaming technique. Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature, as this allows it to incorporate air more effectively when creamed with powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy; this can take around 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer. If your mixture appears greasy or doesn’t aerate well, check if the butter was too cold or if you mixed for too short a time.

Pressing the dough into the baking dish should be done evenly to ensure that the bars cook uniformly. If the dough feels sticky, lightly flour your fingers or use the back of a measuring cup to press it down. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the shortbread tender; less mixing can mean a more delicate final product. When baking, keep an eye out for the edges to turn a light golden brown—this is a good indicator that your bars are ready.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars:

Shortbread Bars Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients for a delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest, chopped thyme, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Shape and Bake

Press the dough into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your lemon thyme delights!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle the bars with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice once they cool.

Storage Tips

To keep your Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. You can also freeze the bars for longer storage—wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months, making them a wonderful make-ahead treat for gatherings or special occasions.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen bars, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For a quick treat, you can pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds to soften. Just be careful not to overheat them, as this can make them chewy instead of maintaining that wonderful crumbly texture that characterizes shortbread.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Thyme Shortbread Bars make a lovely addition to any brunch table or tea party. For a delightful presentation, serve them with a side of lemon curd or a light drizzle of a lemon glaze for additional sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh berries can also enhance the experience with their bright colors and tartness, balancing the richness of the shortbread beautifully.

For a casual everyday treat, enjoy these bars straight from the pan with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. Their unique flavor profile can be even more appreciated when paired with a refreshing mint or chamomile tea, enhancing the herbaceous notes of the thyme. Don't hesitate to experiment with serving them alongside ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures—vanilla or citrus flavors work particularly well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount to about one teaspoon.

→ How should I store the lemon thyme shortbread bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and they can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with the shortbread bars?

They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or a light dessert wine.