Lemon Cookies Recipe
Lemon cookies are the quintessential treat that perfectly balances sweetness with a zesty punch. With their light, buttery texture and refreshing citrus flavor, these cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table or simply as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea. This Lemon Cookies Recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Lemon Cookies Recipe is crafted with care, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh lemon zest and lemon extract creates a vibrant taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. The use of both granulated and brown sugars adds depth to the sweetness, giving the cookies a soft chewiness that is irresistible. Plus, with straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these cookies any day of the week.
Gather These Ingredients
To make these delightful lemon cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (134g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (186g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, for rolling
- 1/2 cup (85g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
- 2-3 teaspoons (10-15ml) milk or heavy cream
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you begin baking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer: To cream the butter and sugars smoothly.
- Baking sheet: To place your cookies on while baking.
- Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cooling rack: To cool your cookies after baking.
The Method for Lemon Cookies Recipe
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of making these zesty lemon cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the sheet easily.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Flavorings
Next, add in the lemon zest, egg, and lemon extract. Beat until well combined. This step is crucial as it incorporates the flavors that will make your cookies shine.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Scoop and Roll the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Roll each portion of dough in the extra granulated sugar to coat.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and enough milk or cream to achieve a drizzle-able consistency.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the cookies for that extra burst of flavor.
Variations by Season
These lemon cookies can be easily adapted to reflect seasonal flavors:
- Spring: Add fresh blueberries or strawberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
- Summer: Mix in some poppy seeds for a delightful texture and added crunch.
- Fall: Incorporate a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor adjustment.
- Winter: Top with crushed peppermint candies after glazing for a festive touch.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Cookies spread too much: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Cold dough can also help.
- Cookies are too dry: Be careful with the flour measurement; spoon it into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Glaze is too runny: Add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
- Cookies are too hard: Overbaking is often the culprit. Keep an eye on them as they bake.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your lemon cookies fresh, consider the following storage methods:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, these cookies can be refrigerated for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies before glazing for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.
Handy Q&A
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I substitute a different extract for the lemon extract?
Absolutely! You could use vanilla extract or almond extract for a different flavor profile, but the cookies will no longer be lemon-flavored.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges should be slightly golden, and the centers will still look soft. They will continue to cook after being removed from the oven due to residual heat.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before scooping and baking.
Similar Recipes
If you enjoyed this Lemon Cookies Recipe, you might also like:
- Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Classic Sugar Cookies
- Vegan Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Best Ever Vanilla Cupcakes
Bring It to the Table
These lemon cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny afternoon picnic, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy night in. With their bright flavor and delightful texture, they’re bound to become a favorite among your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and let the zesty baking begin!
The joy of baking comes not only from the delicious end result but also from the love and care you put into each step. This Lemon Cookies Recipe is a testament to that, bringing sunshine to your kitchen with every bite. Happy baking!
Lemon Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the lemon zest, egg, and lemon extract. Beat until well combined.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Step 5: Portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies. Roll each portion in extra granulated sugar to coat.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 7: While baking, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until drizzle-able.
- Step 8: Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies.
Notes
- For a fruity twist, add fresh blueberries or strawberries.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze the cookies before glazing for up to three months.
