Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool
on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Glaze
Optional: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to make a glaze and drizzle over cooled cookies. Let set
for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Lemon Sugar Cookies fresh for best flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature
for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reapply glaze after thawing if desired.
Tips:
- Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
- Do not overbake; cookies should be soft in the center.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with lemon extract for an extra punch of flavor.
- Decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles for festive occasions.
Conclusion:
Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies are a refreshing, sweet, and tender treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
The combination of buttery dough, bright lemon flavor, and optional glaze makes these cookies a
delightful snack or dessert. Simple, quick, and irresistibly flavorful, they’re sure to become a
household favorite.
FAQ:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use lemon juice instead of zest?
Lemon juice can be added to the dough, but zest provides the best aroma and flavor.
Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
They are soft and slightly chewy in the center with lightly golden edges.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish.