Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie that bursts with bright, zesty lemon flavor. That’s exactly what you get with my lemon sugar cookies recipe! They’re not just cookies—they’re little bites of sunshine that bring a smile to your face. The combination of tangy lemon juice and zest makes these cookies incredibly refreshing, while the soft, buttery texture melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a casual get-together or simply need a sweet pick-me-up during the week. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be dreaming of them long after they’re gone!
Ingredients for Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delightful lemon sugar cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (fresh is best!)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure your butter is softened because it helps create that light, fluffy texture we all love. And don’t skimp on the lemon zest; it really elevates the cookies’ flavor. Trust me, the extra zing is so worth it! When you’re ready, let’s get baking!
How to Prepare the Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these scrumptious lemon sugar cookies! Follow these steps, and you’ll be in cookie heaven in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want those cookies to bake perfectly!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent so your cookies rise just right.
- In another large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. You can really smell the buttery goodness here!
- Add in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where the magic of flavor happens!
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want those cookies to stay soft!
- Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. They’ll spread a little while baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them—nobody likes burnt cookies!
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set just right.
And there you have it! Simple, straightforward steps to bring your lemon sugar cookies to life. You’ll love the tangy aroma filling your kitchen as they bake!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
- They’re incredibly easy to make—perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time!
- The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist, making them a delightful treat for any season.
- Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving just one more cookie.
- Perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or just to brighten up your afternoon tea.
- Quick bake time means you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes—hello, last-minute dessert!
- They store well, so you can enjoy them for days or share them with friends and family.
- Customizable! Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with icing for an extra special touch.
Tips for Success with Your Lemon Sugar Cookies
Ready to make your lemon sugar cookies the absolute best they can be? Here are some pro tips that I swear by, which will help you achieve cookie perfection!
- Chill the dough: If you want thicker cookies, pop the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape and prevents spreading too much.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to that vibrant flavor. Trust me, it’s a game changer! The difference between fresh and bottled is like night and day.
- Don’t overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody wants that!
- Experiment with zest: Feel free to add a bit more lemon zest if you want an even stronger lemon flavor. Go wild—your taste buds will thank you!
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, so check them a minute or two early. You want them to be just golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
- Let them cool: Give your cookies a few minutes to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up just right!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone with your lemon sugar cookies. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
When you’re indulging in these delightful lemon sugar cookies, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per cookie. Just remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes.
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
So, while you’re savoring these cookies, you can feel good about enjoying a little treat! Just keep in mind that moderation is key, especially if you plan to indulge in more than one. Happy baking and enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Got questions about making these tasty lemon sugar cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you bake up a storm.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor! The taste of fresh lemons really shines through in these cookies, making them extra zesty and delicious. Learn more about the differences here.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Great question! The cookies should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. Just keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes!
Can I freeze lemon sugar cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature.
What can I add to the cookies for extra flavor?
If you want to switch things up, consider adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for some extra texture. You could also mix in some poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance!
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your lemon sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay tasty for about a week. If you want them to last longer, freezing is the way to go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Lemon Sugar Cookies
Once you’ve baked these delightful lemon sugar cookies, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible! Here’s how to store and reheat them like a pro.
To store your cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for about a week. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider adding a piece of parchment paper or a slice of bread to help absorb moisture and keep them from getting too soft.
If you want to keep your cookies for longer, freezing is an excellent option! Just allow the cookies to cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie (or several!), there’s no need to rush the thawing process. You can simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until they’re warmed through. Oops! Just don’t forget to keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your lemon sugar cookies at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or from the freezer. Happy snacking!
Variations on the Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Ready to mix things up with your lemon sugar cookies? There are so many fun ways to put your own twist on this classic recipe! Here are some variations that I absolutely love, and I think you will too:
- Lavender Lemon Cookies: Add a teaspoon of culinary lavender to the dough for a fragrant, floral twist. The combination of lemon and lavender is simply divine!
- Blueberry Lemon Cookies: Fold in a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the dough before baking. The juicy berries pair perfectly with the lemon and add a lovely pop of color!
- Ginger Lemon Cookies: Spice things up by adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the dough. The warmth of ginger complements the tangy lemon beautifully!
- White Chocolate Lemon Cookies: Stir in half a cup of white chocolate chips for a sweet, creamy contrast to the zesty lemon flavor. These are a real crowd-pleaser!
- Coconut Lemon Cookies: Mix in a half cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical vibe. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness and makes these cookies extra special.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds into the dough for a delightful crunch and a beautiful appearance. Plus, they add a nice texture!
- Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies have cooled, melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the tops for an elegant finish that adds both flavor and flair.
Feel free to get creative and combine any of these ideas! Each variation brings out something unique, and I can’t wait for you to try them. Happy baking and enjoy playing with flavors!
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Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe: 7 Steps to Sweet Success
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe makes soft and tangy lemon sugar cookies.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- For extra lemon flavor, add more zest.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: lemon sugar cookies recipe
