Brighten your day with these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies, a perfect blend of sweet and tart. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these cookies are soft, chewy, and coated in powdered sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and lemon extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until well combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest and juice, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. The preparation time is around 15 minutes, while the cooking time is 10-12 minutes, making the total time about 25-27 minutes.
Variations
- Add-Ins: Consider adding white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
- Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled cookies for an additional lemony kick.
- Different Extracts: Substitute almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Cookie Size: Adjust the size of the cookie balls for larger or smaller cookies, but adjust baking time accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.
10 FAQs
- Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors. - How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers remain soft. - Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch. - What is the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or a zester for the finest zest, ensuring you avoid the bitter white pith. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. - Why did my cookies spread too much?
Ensure your butter is not too warm when mixing, and check the accuracy of your flour measurement. - Can I add food coloring?
Yes, you can add a few drops of yellow food coloring for a more vibrant appearance. - Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well, allowing you to enjoy them later. - How can I make these cookies softer?
Try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk for a softer texture. - What other citrus can I use?
You can substitute lemon with lime or orange for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of sugar with the refreshing zing of lemon. Perfect for any gathering or a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are simple to make and sure to impress. Whether enjoyed on their own or shared with friends, they bring a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Enjoy baking and savoring each bite!