Lemon Sugar Cookies

Lemon sugar cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that has a burst of zesty lemon flavor with just the right touch of sweetness. They’re perfect for any time of year but feel especially refreshing during the warmer months. Making these cookies is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s also about enjoying the entire baking process. From zesting lemons to the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen, the experience is truly joyful.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love These Lemon Sugar Cookies
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Dough
• Cream Butter and Sugar
• Incorporate Wet Ingredients
• Add Dry Ingredients and Chill
• Baking the Cookies
• Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
• Form Cookie Dough Balls
• Bake to Perfection
• Let Cool
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Breakfast Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

As you mix the simple ingredients, you might find yourself reminiscing about sunny days and relaxed picnics. These cookies are so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make them again and again, whether for a cozy gathering or simply as an afternoon treat. Get ready to have some fun in the kitchen as we embark on this enjoyable journey to bake some irresistible lemon sugar cookies together!

Why This Recipe Works

Lemon sugar cookies shine with their perfectly soft texture and chewy consistency, creating an irresistible treat for any time of year. This recipe balances the bright acidity of lemon juice and the sweetness of sugar, ensuring that every bite delivers a burst of flavor that evokes the feel of a sun-drenched summer day. By using a combination of fresh lemon zest and juice, these cookies capture the essence of citrus, making them refreshing and delightful.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Sugar Cookies

These lemon sugar cookies are not just a delicious dessert; they’re a versatile treat that can brighten up any occasion. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a cozy get-together, or simply a sweet indulgence with your afternoon tea, the inviting aroma and zesty flavor will make you fall in love with them again and again. Plus, they’re simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal time to prepare. This means you can whip up a batch whenever you crave something sweet.

Ingredients

To make these delightful lemon sugar cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (198 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest, divided
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
• 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Preparing the Dough

Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed. Beat for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential, as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, giving your cookies that perfect soft texture.

Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Next, add the large egg to the creamed butter and sugar. After that, mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest, the freshly squeezed lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract if you’re using it. Blend until everything is well combined. This mixture creates a lovely base filled with lemony goodness.

Add Dry Ingredients and Chill

Turn your mixer down to low speed. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until just incorporated, ensuring there are no visible dry streaks. Once mixed, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, chill it for up to 3 days to enhance the flavor and improve the texture of your cookies.

Baking the Cookies

Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with a nonstick baking mat or parchment paper. This will help to prevent the cookies from sticking, making clean-up easier.

Form Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop roughly 1 1/2 tablespoons of the chilled dough and roll it into round balls. Place them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Giving them space allows the cookies to spread while baking, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes, or until the tops are slightly puffy and not quite set. The bottoms should begin to show a hint of golden brown. Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the remaining lemon zest on top of the cookies. This adds an extra layer of flavor and beauty to your cookies.

Let Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is crucial, as it helps them firm up a bit more before you dig in.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon sugar cookies are perfect on their own or can be dressed up with a light lemon glaze. For a delightful balance, pair them with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. The combination of flavors will enhance your enjoyment of these zesty treats.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Let the dough chill adequately for the best texture. This process makes a significant difference in the final product.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven for perfectly baked cookies. Every oven is unique, so keep an eye on your cookies.

Variations

Feeling creative? Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Add white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Incorporate poppy seeds for a unique crunch.
• Experiment with different citrus zests such as lime or orange for a fresh flavor shift.

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy your lemon sugar cookies anytime!

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy these cookies alongside a fruity sorbet, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a light fruit salad. The complementary flavors will enhance the lemon zestiness in the cookies perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. This makes batch baking easy and convenient.

2. What can I use instead of lemon extract?
You can simply omit lemon extract. The cookies will still be flavorful with just lemon juice and zest.

3. How can I keep the cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container. If they start to harden, place a slice of bread in the container to help keep them soft.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using whole wheat flour will alter the flavor slightly, adding a nuttier taste, but it can work well in this recipe.

5. What’s the best way to frost these cookies?
A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice works wonderfully for icing these cookies. It’s an easy yet delicious addition.

The joy of baking lemon sugar cookies lies in the delightful combination of simplicity and freshness. These cookies celebrate the vibrant taste of lemons, offering you a treat that is both sweet and refreshing. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create these light, chewy delights that are perfect for any occasion. Whether shared with loved ones or savored solo, they are sure to bring sunshine into your day. So gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic unfold!

More Easy Breakfast Recipes:

• Tie Dye Cookies
• Feta Fried Eggs
• High-Protein Lemon Blueberry Overnight Oats
• Father’s Day Breakfast Board

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