Introduction
Lemon cookies are a delightful treat that combines the bright, refreshing taste of lemon with the soft, chewy texture of a classic cookie.
The balance of sweet and tart makes these cookies a perfect addition to any dessert table or a simple snack to brighten your day.
Whether you’re a lemon lover or just in the mood for something light and flavorful, these cookies will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
‐2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-1/2 teaspoon baking soda
-1/4 teaspoon salt
-1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-1 cup granulated sugar
-1 large egg
-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
Zest of 1 lemon
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze (optional):
-1 cup powdered sugar
-2-3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to beat until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense cookies.
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make
To make these lemon cookies, it’s important to get the texture just right. First, ensure the butter is softened but not melted, as this will create a more airy dough.
Be careful when adding the flour mixture to avoid overworking the dough, which could make the cookies tough.
If you are adding the glaze, make sure the cookies are fully cooled before you drizzle it on, as hot cookies can cause the glaze to melt and run off.
For a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of lemon juice in the glaze.
If you prefer a chewier cookie, underbake the cookies slightly. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Tips
For a slightly different flavor profile, you can add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the dough. These spices complement the lemon without overpowering it.
To make these cookies even more indulgent, consider adding a handful of white chocolate chips or chopped macadamia nuts to the dough. Both pair beautifully with the lemon flavor.
To ensure uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough. This will help keep the cookies even in size and bake more consistently.
If you’re looking to give the cookies a more decadent look, drizzle the glaze over the cookies in a zigzag pattern and add a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top for a pop of color and flavor.
You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, allowing for a quicker baking session when you’re ready.
If you’re in a rush, you can also freeze the dough for up to a month. Just let it thaw slightly before scooping and baking.
For a more subtle lemon flavor, reduce the amount of lemon zest or juice in the dough. This way.
the cookies will still have a hint of citrus without being too tangy.
Lastly, be sure to store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness and freshness.
Conclusion
Lemon cookies are a perfect balance of tart and sweet, and they’re so simple to make. Whether you enjoy.
them on their own or topped with a glaze, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves citrus-flavored treats.
These cookies make a refreshing snack or dessert, and with the right balance of ingredients and techniques.
you’ll have a batch that’s always perfectly soft, flavorful, and bursting with that zesty lemon goodness.