Introduction
Bright, zesty, and delicately sweet, Lemon Cookies bring a burst of sunshine to every bite. With crisp edges, soft centers, and an aromatic citrus finish, these cookies stand out as a refreshing twist on classic treats. The balance of buttery richness and fresh lemon flavor makes Lemon Cookies perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or anytime cravings. Whether you love bold citrus desserts or simple homemade bakes, this recipe delivers consistent results with minimal effort. You’ll learn how to create bakery-style texture, amplify lemon flavor naturally, and bake cookies that stay tender and vibrant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lemon Cookies shine because they hit every texture note. The outside bakes lightly golden and crisp, while the inside stays soft and melt-in-your-mouth tender. Fresh lemon zest brings natural oils that perfume the dough, while lemon juice adds brightness without overpowering sweetness. This recipe uses everyday pantry ingredients, so you can bake on impulse without special tools. The dough comes together quickly, chills briefly, and bakes evenly. These cookies also adapt easily, whether you want classic lemon sugar cookies or softer, cake-like cookies. Best of all, Lemon Cookies stay fresh for days, making them ideal for gifting, lunchboxes, or make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
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2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour, sifted for light texture
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder for gentle lift
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1/4 teaspoon salt to balance sweetness
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3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened for easy creaming
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1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar for crisp edges
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1 large egg, room temperature for smooth mixing
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for brightness
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Zest of 2 lemons to boost citrus aroma
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract for depth
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1/4 cup (50 g) powdered sugar for rolling
Each ingredient works together to give Lemon Cookies their signature soft center and lively flavor.
Pro Tips
Start with room-temperature butter and egg. This step ensures the dough blends smoothly and traps air during creaming, which improves texture. Always zest lemons before juicing them. Lemon zest holds essential oils that carry most of the flavor, making a huge difference in Lemon Cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step controls spreading and keeps the cookies thick and tender. Finally, avoid overbaking. Pull cookies when edges set and centers look slightly underdone. They finish baking as they cool, staying soft instead of dry.
Instructions
Step 1
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl until evenly combined. Set aside.
Step 2
Beat butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until pale and fluffy. This step creates the base structure for tender Lemon Cookies.
Step 3
Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl to ensure even blending.
Step 4
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. The dough should smell fresh and citrusy.
Step 5
Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft.
Step 6
Cover the dough and chill for 30 to 45 minutes. Chilled dough holds its shape during baking.
Step 7
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 8
Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar for a crackled finish.
Step 9
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges set.
Step 10
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. The centers will stay soft and tender.
Variations
Turn these into lemon sugar cookies by skipping powdered sugar and rolling dough in granulated sugar. For softer lemon cookies, add one extra tablespoon of butter and reduce baking time slightly. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter with similar fat content. You can also drizzle cooled Lemon Cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra zing.
Storage and Serving
Store Lemon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to two months. Serve with tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. These cookies also pair beautifully with fresh berries or vanilla ice cream for a light dessert.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh juice tastes brighter and delivers better flavor.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough likely needed more chilling time.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes, refrigerate dough for up to 48 hours.
Do these cookies stay soft?
Yes, proper baking keeps centers tender.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Double all ingredients evenly.
Conclusion
This Lemon Cookies is comfort food at its finest — bright, buttery, and perfectly balanced with fresh citrus flavor. It’s the kind of dish that turns simple moments into something special, whether you bake for family, friends, or yourself.
Print
Lemon Cookies
- Total Time: 40mins
Description
Zesty, soft, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, these lemon cookies taste like sunshine in every bite. Perfect for baking days when you want something bright and comforting.
Ingredients
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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Zest of 2 lemons
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
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Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.
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Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add egg and mix until smooth.
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Stir in lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
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Gradually add dry ingredients and mix gently.
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Chill dough for 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Roll dough into balls and coat with powdered sugar.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges set.
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Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25mins
- Category: Cooking
- Cuisine: American