Go Back
plate of freshly baked rosemary shortbread cookies

Rosemary Shortbread Cookies

These rosemary shortbread cookies are buttery, crisp, and lightly fragrant with fresh rosemary. A hint of salt or optional lemon zest adds a bright touch, making them perfect for tea, a cheese board, or a simple sweet snack anytime.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack, Tea-Time Treat
Cuisine: American, Dessert, European-inspired
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
Optional: zest of 1 lemon (for lemon rosemary shortbread)
Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan (for savory rosemary shortbread)
Optional: 2 tablespoons honey (for rosemary honey shortbread)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until fluffy and light.
  3. Add flavorings: Mix in chopped rosemary and optional ingredients like lemon zest, Parmesan, or honey.
  4. Add flour and salt: Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix.
  5. Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a log, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Slice cookies: Cut chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake: Bake 15–18 minutes until edges are just golden.
  8. Cool: Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use fresh rosemary for best flavor; dried can taste sharp.
  • Dough can be made 1–3 days in advance or frozen for longer storage.
  • Adjust sugar or add honey for a slightly sweeter version.
  • Parmesan or sea salt sprinkled on top gives a savory touch that pairs beautifully with cheese.