Lemon Drop Cookies
There’s something about the bright, zesty flavor of lemons that instantly uplifts the mood, and what better way to embrace that sunny essence than with a batch of scrumptious Lemon Drop Cookies? These cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and tart, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Made using simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Let’s dive into the world of Lemon Drop Cookies and transform your kitchen into a citrus paradise!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Lemon Drop Cookies recipe is tried and true, ensuring that you’ll achieve perfect results every time. The combination of butter, sugar, and lemon zest creates a rich, flavorful base that balances sweetness with a hint of tanginess. The addition of lemon curd enhances the lemon flavor without overwhelming the cookie, making it an irresistible treat. The dough is easy to work with, and even beginner bakers will find success with this recipe. Plus, the cookies freeze well, allowing you to make them ahead of time for any occasion.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start baking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you need to create these delightful Lemon Drop Cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter – Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This will give the cookies their sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Zest of one lemon – Freshly grated for the best citrus flavor.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup lemon curd – Provides a rich lemon flavor and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar – Great for sprinkling on top for a little crunch.
Equipment Breakdown
Gather the necessary tools for baking your Lemon Drop Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
- Rubber spatula – For folding in the flour and lemon curd.
- Baking sheets – To bake your cookies.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Cooling rack – For cooling the cookies after baking.
Lemon Drop Cookies — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get baking! Follow these steps to create your Lemon Drop Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise beautifully.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Lemon Zest
Mix in the vanilla extract and the zest of one lemon. The aroma will be intoxicating!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Lemon Curd
Gently fold in the lemon curd using a rubber spatula. This will add a luscious lemon flavor and moisture to the dough.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Turbinado Sugar
Before baking, sprinkle the tops of each cookie with turbinado sugar for a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy them warm or allow them to cool completely before storing.
Make It Year-Round
Lemon Drop Cookies are not just for summer. Here’s how to enjoy their delightful flavor year-round:
- Seasonal Variations: Add different citrus zests such as lime or orange for a unique twist.
- Holiday Treats: Decorate with royal icing for festive occasions.
- Flavor Pairings: Serve with a lemon glaze or alongside a cup of tea for an elegant touch.
- Gift Ideas: Package them in a beautiful tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Cook’s Commentary
The joy of baking Lemon Drop Cookies isn’t just in the final product; it’s in the process! Don’t rush through mixing the butter and sugar; give it a few extra minutes for the best texture. The lemon zest is essential, so make sure to use a fine grater to get the most flavor without the bitter pith. And remember, these cookies can be as soft and chewy or as crisp as you prefer; just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Lemon Drop Cookies fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep them longer, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. You can freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed!
Helpful Q&A
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the amount of kosher salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
What can I substitute for lemon curd?
If you don’t have lemon curd, you can use a mixture of lemon juice and powdered sugar as a substitute, but the flavor might not be as rich.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to add white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Weekend Projects
Looking for more delicious baking projects? Here are some ideas to fill your weekends with sweet treats:
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake some Lemon Drop Cookies! With their bright, tangy flavor and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a burst of lemony goodness in every bite. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Lemon Drop Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 3: Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the lemon curd using a rubber spatula.
- Step 6: Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar before baking.
- Step 8: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Step 9: Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Feel free to add different citrus zests for a unique twist.
