Hello, cookie enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of tangy, citrusy desserts, you’re in for a treat. These Lemon Sugar Cookies bring together the classic softness of sugar cookies and the zesty brightness of lemons, creating a perfectly refreshing cookie that’s great for any occasion. Whether it’s for a holiday party, a summer picnic, or just a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to please. Let’s explore how to make this delightful treat!
Introduction
Lemon Sugar Cookies are the ultimate blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Unlike traditional sugar cookies, this recipe incorporates fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist that’s both vibrant and refreshing. Their soft texture, light crunch from the sugar coating, and the burst of lemon flavor make these cookies a standout dessert. Perfect for lemon lovers and cookie aficionados alike, they’re easy to make and even easier to eat!
Ingredients
To create these zesty and delicious cookies, you’ll need the following 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
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The butter ensures a soft and tender bite, while the lemon zest and juice infuse the cookies with a tangy brightness.
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies
Follow these detailed steps to make Lemon Sugar Cookies that are both tangy and irresistibly soft:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process, which takes about 3-4 minutes, helps create a tender and airy cookie.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The combination of zest and juice adds a double dose of citrus flavor, making these cookies truly special.
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the dough comes together.
- Roll and Coat the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in extra granulated sugar, coating them completely for a slight crunch and sparkle after baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; the centers should still look slightly soft.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they firm up without becoming hard.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Lemon Sugar Cookies
To achieve cookie perfection, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving the brightest, most natural lemon flavor. Avoid bottled juice, which lacks the vibrancy of fresh lemons.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for easy mixing and even incorporation.
- Measuring Flour Correctly: Scoop and level the flour to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can lead to dense cookies.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Sugar Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Serve them alongside lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert combo.
- Include them in a holiday cookie platter for a bright, zesty addition.
These cookies are perfect for any season but especially shine during spring and summer when citrus flavors are at their best.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Potassium: 30mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin A: 4%
- Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 1%
- Iron: 3%
These cookies are a sweet treat that’s light enough to enjoy without guilt!
Storage and Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to keep them soft.
- Freezing Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.
Can I add a glaze to the cookies?
Absolutely. A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can add an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Definitely! Orange or lime zest and juice can be substituted for a different but equally delicious twist.
Related Recipes
If you love these Lemon Sugar Cookies, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion
Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tangy brightness of lemons with the comforting softness of sugar cookies. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Try them out and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors in every bite!