These delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and tang, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With a soft and chewy texture, these cookies are bursting with fresh lemon flavor, making them a refreshing dessert option.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this recipe for its simplicity and the bright, zesty flavor it brings to your cookie jar. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing twist to the classic sugar cookie, making them perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as an afternoon snack. Not only are they easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, these cookies are a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them a versatile treat for any age group.
Introduction
Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. They are not only easy to prepare but also provide a burst of citrus flavor that elevates the standard sugar cookie. The bright yellow color and the sweet-tart taste of these cookies make them visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to create the perfect batch of Lemon Sugar Cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)—line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth. The lemon zest and juice will add a refreshing flavor that will shine through in the finished cookies.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar to coat them evenly. This step adds a lovely sweetness and a slight crunch to the exterior of the cookies.
Step 7: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 8: Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingers. This will help them bake evenly and achieve that perfect cookie shape.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Note:
For the best results, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This will help create a smooth and creamy mixture when combined with sugar. Additionally, using fresh lemon juice and zest will enhance the flavor of your cookies, making them taste vibrant and fresh.
Serving Suggestions:
These Lemon Sugar Cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea. For a festive touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the top. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters, cookie boxes, or as party favors.
Tips:
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating white chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, slightly increase the amount of lemon zest and juice.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 150 kcal per cookie
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
Conclusion
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture and bright lemon flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared with friends and family, these cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate the joy of baking.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A1: Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
Q2: How can I store leftover cookies?
A2: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Q3: Can I substitute lemon juice with bottled lemon juice?
A3: While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Q4: What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
A4: If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up before rolling it into balls.
Q5: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A5: The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. They may appear slightly underbaked in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
