Description
These Lemon Cookies offer a delightful burst of zesty citrus flavor combined with a soft, buttery texture. Perfectly balanced with fresh lemon juice and zest, these easy-to-make cookies are great for any occasion and provide a refreshing twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, which helps incorporate air for a tender cookie.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined, infusing the dough with bright citrus flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Portion Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating the cookies are properly baked but still soft inside.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the sheets before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
- Optional Dusting: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest to maximize the lemon flavor intensity.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to maintain a tender crumb.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add a teaspoon more lemon zest.
- Optionally, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.
