Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the zesty flavor and soft texture of these delicious lemon cookies, perfect for any occasion.
These soft and chewy lemon cookies are a delightful treat that combines a burst of citrus with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own, they're sure to brighten your day!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Bright citrus flavor that refreshes your palate
- Soft and chewy texture that is simply irresistible
- Perfect for any gathering or a cozy afternoon snack
A Burst of Citrus in Every Bite
Lemon cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunshine in every bite. Their vibrant flavor is not only refreshing but also uplifting, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. The use of fresh lemon zest and juice ensures that you get an authentic citrus experience, setting these cookies apart from ordinary sweets.
These cookies are not just about flavor; they also boast a wonderfully soft and chewy texture. The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich base, while the lemon adds a delightful tang. The result is a cookie that is satisfying and comforting, sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a spring picnic, a summer barbecue, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these lemon cookies are the ideal companion. Their bright and cheerful appearance is sure to impress guests, and they pair beautifully with tea or lemonade. Serve them at your next gathering, and watch how quickly they disappear!
These cookies also make a thoughtful gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar, and share them with friends and family. The delightful aroma and flavors are bound to bring smiles, making them a beloved treat for all ages.
Tips for the Best Lemon Cookies
To ensure your lemon cookies come out perfectly every time, use room temperature butter when creaming with sugar. This helps to incorporate air, giving the cookies their light and fluffy texture. Additionally, measuring your flour properly is crucial; use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon extract or a sprinkle of poppy seeds to the dough. This not only enhances the citrus flavor but also adds a unique texture that elevates your cookies. Experiment with these variations to find your perfect lemon cookie recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Dust
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your delicious lemon cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Storage and Freshness
To keep your soft and chewy lemon cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back their soft texture, making them taste freshly baked!
Nutritional Information
While these lemon cookies are a delicious treat, it's always good to be mindful of nutritional content. Each cookie contains essential ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, but they also come with calories and sugar. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet, treating yourself and sharing with friends and family to keep the indulgence in moderation.
You can also make some adjustments to the recipe for a healthier version. For instance, substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour can add fiber and nutrients, while reducing the sugar slightly can still maintain the sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of citrus?
Yes, you can substitute lime or orange zest and juice for a different flavor profile.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped dough for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
→ What can I do if my cookies spread too much?
Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted, and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Delight in the zesty flavor and soft texture of these delicious lemon cookies, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Jocelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 2g