Lemon Cookie Recipe

With the Lemon Cookie Recipe, you can create delightful treats that brighten any occasion. These soft and chewy lemon sugar cookies are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Their fresh lemon flavor and easy preparation make them a standout choice among cookies, drawing in over 1.5 million viewers to this beloved recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The zesty lemon adds a refreshing taste that’s loved by all ages.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for parties, gifts, or everyday snacks, these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
• Freezable Dough: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for future baking.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy cookies that are thick, chewy, and melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your lemon cookies, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps you achieve fluffy butter and sugar quickly, ensuring a light texture.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop allows for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
• Silicone baking mat: This prevents sticking and promotes even heat distribution while baking.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
– 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
– 3 Tbsp lemon zest
– 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 1 large egg
– 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup (50g) sugar (for rolling cookies)

How to Make Lemon Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest with an electric mixer for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Egg and Lemon Juice

Add in the fresh lemon juice and the large egg. Beat again until fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Use a spatula to mix by hand until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to firm up the dough.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Sugar

Remove the dough from the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place 1/4 cup of sugar in a separate bowl for rolling the cookies.

Step 6: Form Cookies

Use a cookie scoop to form balls from the dough. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on a silicone-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about two inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until the edges turn a faint golden color.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious lemon cookies!

How to Serve Lemon Cookie Recipe

These delightful lemon cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to share them with friends or enjoy them at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with a Refreshing Beverage

• Lemonade: Serve these cookies alongside a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade for a double dose of citrus goodness.
• Iced Tea: A sweetened iced tea complements the tangy flavor of the cookies beautifully.
• Herbal Tea: Choose a calming herbal tea like chamomile or mint to balance the sweetness of the cookies.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Fruit: Add a variety of fresh fruits like berries and melon for a colorful and healthy touch.
• Chocolate Dip: Melt some dark chocolate for dipping, adding a rich contrast to the zesty cookies.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can make for an indulgent treat when served with the cookies.

Use as Party Favors

• Gift Bags: Pack individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for a charming party favor.
• Cookie Jars: Layer cookies in decorative jars for a unique and thoughtful gift that friends will appreciate.

How to Perfect Lemon Cookie Recipe

To achieve the best results with your lemon cookie recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use freshly grated lemon zest instead of pre-packaged options. This will maximize the citrus aroma and flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough is crucial. It helps control spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly soft when you take them out. They will firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with Additions: Try adding poppy seeds or white chocolate chips for an exciting twist on texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cookie Recipe

These lemon cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their bright flavors. Consider these options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a creamy contrast to the cookie’s texture.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing dessert option alongside your lemon cookies.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, or pistachios offers crunch and complements the soft cookie texture.
5. Pudding Cups: Light vanilla pudding can serve as a delightful dip for your lemon cookies.
6. Savory Crackers: Pairing with mildly flavored crackers can create an interesting sweet-and-savory balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon cookies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best lemon cookie experience.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter does not cream well with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Always use room temperature butter for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling the dough helps prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurement.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking cookies even slightly too long can result in a hard texture. Keep an eye on them, and remove when edges are lightly golden.
• Using bottled lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor than bottled versions. Always opt for fresh lemons for juice and zest.
• Neglecting to roll in sugar: Rolling the dough balls in sugar adds a delightful sweetness and texture. Make sure to coat each ball thoroughly before baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to avoid sticking.

Freezing Lemon Cookie Recipe

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Lemon Cookie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on high for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this lemon cookie recipe.

What makes this Lemon Cookie Recipe special?

This Lemon Cookie Recipe stands out because it offers a perfect balance of soft, chewy texture with refreshing lemon flavor that brightens any occasion.

Can I make these lemon cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, ensuring delicious results without gluten.

How do I add more lemon flavor?

To intensify the flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest and juice or add a bit of lemon extract to the dough.

How long do these cookies last?

These lemon sugar cookies will last about one week in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze baked lemon cookies?

Absolutely! Baked lemon cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Cookie Recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The bright flavor of lemons makes these cookies perfect for any occasion or celebration. Feel free to experiment by adding different citrus zests or incorporating nuts into the dough. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!