Celebrate the summer solstice with this buttery rosemary lemon shortbread, finished with a sprinkle of rosemary citrus salt. Perfect for Litha, Wheel of the Year rituals, or any sunlit summer celebration!

You’ll Love This Rosemary Lemon Shortbread

Buttery, crumbly, and bright with citrus.
Infused with fresh rosemary for a magical herbal note.
Finished with homemade rosemary citrus salt for a sparkling flavor boost.
Perfect for Litha, the summer solstice, and Wheel of the Year gatherings.
Easy to make ahead, freeze, and share.

Rosemary lemon shortbread bars stacked on a blue plate with fresh herbs and a “fresh HERBS” wooden box in the background, basking in natural sunlight.

Rosemary Lemon Shortbread with Rosemary Citrus Salt

Celebrate the summer solstice with this buttery, crumbly shortbread infused with fresh rosemary and lemon zest, then finished with a magical sprinkle of rosemary citrus salt. Perfect for Litha, Wheel of the Year rituals, or any sunny day you crave a simple, herbal treat.

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Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened (2 sticks)
2/3 cup powdered sugar
zest of 1 large lemon (Meyer if you have it)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
Rosemary Citrus Salt, for finishing

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add lemon zest, rosemary, and vanilla (if using) and mix until just combined.
Add flour and salt and mix until a soft dough forms. Don't overwork.
Shape the dough into a rectangle (about 1/2" thick) or press into a parchment lined 8×8" pan. Chill for 20-30 minutes.
Slice or cut into bars, wedges, or use cookie cutters for festive shapes.
Bake for 18-25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Sprinkle generously with Rosemary Citrus Salt while the shortbread is still warm.
Cool completely, then enjoy!

Notes

Tips, Variations, and Ritual Uses

Make Ahead: Dough can be made up to 2 days in advance or frozen for 1 month.

Shape It Your Way: Bars, rounds, or wedges or whatever fits your ritual!

Flavor Swaps: Try orange zest, or swap in fresh thyme for a twist.

Magical Touch: Bake with intention. Think about what you want to invite into your season as you work with each ingredient.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Serving Rosemary Lemon Shortbread at Your Litha Ritual

Serve at your Litha Herbal Circle Ritual or as part of your summer solstice altar.
Enjoy with a glass of herbal iced tea, lemonade, or sun tea.
Wrap and gift to friends for a little taste of summer magic.