Lemon Cookies Recipe: Lemon cookies are a delightful treat for citrus lovers, combining the zesty brightness of fresh lemon with the soft, buttery texture of a homemade cookie. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you want a sweet snack with your tea or a refreshing dessert after a meal.
The best part? They’re super easy to make! With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a batch of homemade lemon cookies ready in no time.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious lemon cookies:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for extra sweetness
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds for a crunchy texture
- A pinch of turmeric for a natural yellow color
Equipment Required
Before starting, gather these kitchen essentials:
Baking Essentials:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Optional Tools:
- Zester (for lemon zest)
- Cookie scoop (for evenly sized cookies)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together:
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Chilling the Dough
Why Chill the Dough?
Chilling helps:
- Enhance the lemon flavor
- Prevent cookies from spreading too much
How Long to Chill?
- At least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- If short on time, freeze for 15 minutes.
Shaping and Baking
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop out 1.5-inch dough balls.
- Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
- Cookies should be soft in the center but firm at the edges.
Cooling and Serving
How to Cool Properly
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with tea or coffee.
- Drizzle with lemon glaze for extra zest.
Storing and Freezing
At Room Temperature:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions:
- Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Bake directly from frozen (add 1-2 extra minutes).
Variations and Additions
Lemon-Glazed Cookies
Drizzle cookies with a glaze made of:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
- Add 1 teaspoon poppy seeds to the dough for a crunchy twist.
Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies
- Replace half the butter with cream cheese for a richer texture.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Cookies
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough to keep cookies soft.
- Chill the dough to prevent spreading.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overmixing the dough = tough cookies.
- Too much flour = dry cookies.
- Baking too long = crispy instead of chewy.
FAQs about Lemon Cookies Recipe
What type of flour is best for lemon cookies?
For lemon cookies, all-purpose flour is typically the best choice as it provides the right balance of softness and structure. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can experiment with bread flour, which has a higher protein content.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?
While lemon juice can be used, lemon zest is highly recommended for more intense lemon flavor. Lemon juice can alter the moisture content and acidity of the dough, affecting the final texture.
How long do lemon cookies last?
Lemon cookies stored in an airtight container typically last up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to three weeks or freeze for up to three months.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The standard recipe for lemon cookies includes wheat flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute gluten-free flour blends designed for baking to make your cookies gluten-free.
Can I add mix-ins to my lemon cookies?
Absolutely! Consider adding white chocolate chips, poppy seeds, or dried cranberries to complement the lemon flavor. Mix-ins should be folded into the batter just before scooping and baking.
What is the best way to ensure my lemon cookies are soft and chewy?
To achieve soft and chewy lemon cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove the cookies from the oven when they are just barely golden around the edges and still soft in the center.
Can I make lemon cookies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. This can even help intensify the flavors. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough and bake the cookies at a later date.
For more tips and variations on this delicious treat, check out our complete guide to baking the perfect lemon cookies!
Conclusion
These lemon cookies are an absolute treat—soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and can be customized in many ways. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delicious batch of homemade lemon cookies!
