In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Watch for a smooth, creamy texture and a slight sheen.
1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar
Add the fresh lime juice to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well incorporated, about 30 seconds. The mixture may look slightly curdled but will combine smoothly after a few seconds.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or stirring with a silicone spatula until just combined and a dough forms.
2 cups all-purpose flour, 0.5 teaspoon baking powder, 0.25 teaspoon salt
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft but set.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their texture to firm up slightly.