Description
Delightful lemon sugar cookies bring zesty sunshine to classic baked treats with their perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet comfort. Crisp edges, tender centers, and bright lemon glaze create an irresistible cookie you’ll crave with afternoon tea or as a cheerful dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
Finishing and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper for optimal cookie baking.
- Using an electric mixer, blend butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes airy and pale, creating a smooth base.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition, then gently stir in vanilla and lemon extracts to infuse delicate flavors.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt through a gentle whisking motion to eliminate potential lumps.
- Gradually merge dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms without overmixing.
- Introduce freshly grated lemon zest and juice, folding gently to distribute citrus notes evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape the dough into small spheres approximately 1-inch in diameter, then generously coat each ball with powdered sugar for a delicate exterior.
- Arrange cookie balls on prepared baking sheets, using the bottom of a glass to create a gentle flattened surface.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for set edges while maintaining soft, tender centers.
- Allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes to stabilize, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling and optimal texture.
Notes
- Swap butter for plant-based alternatives to create vegan-friendly cookies that maintain the same delightful texture and zesty flavor.
- Adjust lemon extract quantity based on personal preference, allowing more or less intensity depending on your citrus love.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading and ensure perfectly shaped, crisp-edged cookies with soft centers.
- Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft and fresh for several days, maintaining their delectable moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 156
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 82 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 22 mg