These Lemon Cookies made with fresh lemon zest are the perfect summer time treat for the family!
Lemon Cookies: A Sweet and Simple Treat for Moms on the Go
Are you in search of an easy-to-make treat that combines the zesty goodness of fresh lemons with the sweet comfort of homemade cookies?
Look no further than this easy lemon cookie recipe – a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor that’s sure to excite your taste buds and those of your family!
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
Why Lemon Cookies?
Lemon cookies offer a bright and bold lemon flavor that’s both refreshing and comforting.
These soft lemon sugar cookies are not just a treat for lemon lovers but an excellent way to add a citrusy twist to your baking routine.
Plus, their aroma brings a fresh and lively atmosphere to your kitchen.
When to Bake Lemon Cookies
Whether it’s for a school event, a family gathering, or just a weekend baking project with your kids, these cookies are a great choice.
The simple recipe ensures that you can whip up a batch quickly, even amidst a busy schedule.
And if you’re thinking about homemade gifts, these cookies, stored in an airtight container, are a charming and thoughtful option.
Making the Most of Your Baking Experience
Start by gathering your basic cookie ingredients.
Remember, for these chewy lemon cookies, the freshness of lemons is key. Use plenty of lemon zest and tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to ensure that natural lemon flavor shines through.
Mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the butter mixture in another, such as the bowl of a stand mixer, helps streamline the process.
Using a cookie scoop, you can easily form even-sized cookie dough balls, ensuring uniformity in your baking.
When baking, using parchment paper on your cookie sheet or baking sheet ensures that the cookies come off easily without sticking.
Cooling and Storage
Once your cookies are golden and fragrant, transfer them to a wire rack. If you fancy, sprinkle some confectioners’ sugar for a sweet lemon glaze effect.
Cooled cookies can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture. They’re perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after a meal.
Engaging with Kids
Baking these lemon cookies is a wonderful way to engage with your children in the kitchen. It’s an easy recipe that allows them to learn about measuring, mixing, and the joy of baking.
The process of zesting and juicing lemons can be particularly fun and educational for them.
Final Thoughts
These easy lemon cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re an opportunity to create memories, share love, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these lemon delights are sure to bring a smile to your face and those around you.
Happy baking!
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (1 and ½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a seasoned baking stone.
Zest the lemon. Finely chop the zest. Juice the lemon, reserving the juice.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Scrape down the sides.
Add the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice, beating until well combined.
Slowly add the flour mixture, scraping down the sides as needed.
Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough in even mounds at least one inch apart.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are very lightly browned. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 7 minutes before carefully transferring to a cooling rack.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Makes about 30 cookies
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (1 and ½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a seasoned baking stone.
Zest the lemon. Finely chop the zest. Juice the lemon, reserving the juice.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Scrape down the sides.
Add the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice, beating until well combined.
Slowly add the flour mixture, scraping down the sides as needed.
Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough in even mounds at least one inch apart.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are very lightly browned. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 7 minutes before carefully transferring to a cooling rack.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lemon Cookies Recipe
What’s the best way to ensure my lemon cookies have a bright lemon flavor?
Use fresh lemon zest and real lemon juice. The zest contains essential oils that provide a more intense flavor compared to lemon extract.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a chewier texture?
Yes, substituting brown sugar for granulated sugar can give the cookies a slightly chewier texture and a deeper flavor.
How much flour is needed for soft lemon sugar cookies?
Use the amount specified in your recipe, typically around 2 cups for a batch. Too much flour can make the cookies hard.
Is it necessary to use a hand mixer, or can I mix the dough by hand?
While a hand mixer or electric mixer makes the process easier, you can mix the dough by hand. Just ensure the butter and sugar are well creamed.
Can I make lemon bars using this cookie recipe?
This specific recipe is for cookies, but you can adapt it to make lemon bars by pressing the dough into a baking tray and adjusting the baking time.
What’s the purpose of baking soda in lemon cookies?
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and achieve a soft texture.
How long should I bake the cookies in a preheated oven?
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 350 degrees or until the edges are lightly browned.
Can I add white chocolate or cream cheese to the recipe?
White chocolate chips or a cream cheese swirl can add a delicious twist to your lemon cookies.
Is it possible to make lemon crinkle cookies with this recipe?
Yes, roll the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking to create a crinkle effect.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
How can I prevent the cookies from sticking to the cookie sheet?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your cookie sheet for easy removal.
What should I do with the remaining dough if I don’t want to bake all the cookies at once?
You can store the remaining dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for later use.
Can I use lemon oil instead of fresh lemon zest for flavor?
Yes, but use it sparingly as lemon oil is much more concentrated than fresh zest.
How can I ensure my cookies are soft and not too hard?
Avoid overbaking and measure your flour correctly using a measuring cup, leveling it off with a knife.
Any tips for making lemon cookies with kids?
Involve them in easy tasks like measuring ingredients, mixing, and rolling the dough into balls. It’s a fun and educational activity for the whole family!
Remember, the key to perfect lemon cookies is the balance of flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you and your family!