Lemon cookies are a delightful treat that offer a refreshing, tangy flavor with a soft, chewy texture. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for making homemade lemon cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. The dough will be soft but not too sticky.
2. Shape the Cookies:
- Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar into a small bowl.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat it evenly.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press each ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to flatten slightly.
3. Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center is still soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Optional Lemon Glaze:
- If you’d like to add a sweet lemon glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
5. Serve:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled (with or without the glaze), they’re ready to enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add a little more lemon zest to the dough or glaze.
- For a softer texture: Ensure the cookies don’t bake too long, as they can dry out.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
These lemon cookies are perfect for spring or summer, or anytime you’re craving something sweet with a zesty twist! Enjoy!