Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with the zesty freshness of lemon. Soft and chewy with a crispy edge, these cookies are ideal for a light dessert or snack. The citrusy lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist, making them perfect for any occasion. Best of all, they are quick and easy to make, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup sugar (for rolling)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the butter-sugar mixture, blending well.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the Cookies:
   Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into small balls. Roll each ball in the additional sugar to coat.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and Timing:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Makes approximately 36 cookies

Variations:

1. Lemon Glaze:
   Add a light glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. Drizzle over the cooled cookies for extra sweetness and tang.
2. Lemon-Lime Twist:
   Replace half the lemon zest and juice with lime for a citrus blend.
3. Lemon Poppy Seed:
   Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for added texture and a delightful look.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage:
  Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  If desired, you can warm the cookies in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to refresh their softness.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
   Yes, but reduce the added salt or omit it to balance the flavor.
2. Can I freeze the dough for later use?
   Absolutely. You can freeze the dough balls before rolling them in sugar. Freeze them on a tray first, then store in an airtight container.
3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Ensure that your butter is softened but not too warm. Chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes can also help reduce spreading.
4. Can I make the cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.
5. What can I substitute for lemon zest?
   You can use lemon extract, though the flavor may be less fresh. Lime or orange zest can also work for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
   Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
7. Can I add other flavorings to the cookies?
   Yes, you can add a hint of almond extract or even lavender for a unique flavor twist.
8. Can I make these cookies vegan?
   Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) in place of the egg.
9. Can I omit the sugar rolling step?
   Yes, but the rolling in sugar adds a slight crunch and a decorative finish to the cookies.
10. What can I do to make the cookies more lemony?
    Increase the lemon zest and juice or add a drop of lemon extract for an intensified lemon flavor.

Conclusion:

Lemon Sugar Cookies are a simple yet flavorful dessert that can be whipped up quickly. Their refreshing lemony taste paired with a soft, chewy texture makes them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or just craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. Experiment with the variations to suit your personal taste, and enjoy this delightful treat any time!

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