Lemon-Basil Butter Cookies

Makes ~ 6 1/2 dozen cookies

Picnic FareCookiesSummerItalian Inspired

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh lemon-basil leaves or fresh sweet basil leaves
  • 1 ¾ cups sugar, divided 
  • 1 pound butter, softened 
  • ¼ cup lemon juice 
  • 1 large egg 
  • 6 cups all-purpose flour 
  • Garnish: fresh basil sprigs

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  • Process basil and 1/4 cup sugar in a food processor until blended. Step 1
  • Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add remaining 1 1/2 cups sugar, beating well. Add lemon juice and egg, beating until blended. Gradually add flour and basil mixture, beating until blended. Step 2
  • Shape dough into 1-inch balls, and place 2 inches apart on lightly greased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. Step 3
  • Bake at 350° for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks. Garnish, if desired. Step 4
    • Plain fresh basil leaves may be substituted for lemon-basil leaves. Step 5