Soft Lemon Cookies
Soft Lemon Cookies: A Zesty Delight
There’s something irresistible about the fresh burst of lemon in a baked treat, and these Soft Lemon Cookies deliver just that! Perfectly soft, tangy, and sweet, they are the type of cookies that brighten up any day. The refreshing combination of lemon juice and zest permeates each bite, making these cookies an ideal companion for a cozy afternoon or a cheerful gathering. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, ensuring you have more time to enjoy your sweet creations!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 100
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why I Love This Soft Lemon Cookies
These Soft Lemon Cookies hold a special place in my heart for their simplicity and delightful flavor. When I make them, I can already imagine the smiles they bring to family and friends. They are perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a sunny picnic, a holiday treat, or just a cozy evening at home. The zesty notes from the lemon juice and zest elevate the sweetness, making each bite give you that warm, fuzzy feeling inside. Plus, I love how fun they are to make! Rolling the dough into balls and watching them bake gives me such joy.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make Soft Lemon Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will create a lovely base for your cookies, making them tender and delicious.
Step 3: Add Egg and Flavorings
Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined. The scent of lemon will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll be ready for a treat!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread slightly while baking, so give them some room!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up just enough.
Step 8: Dust and Serve
Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. This adds a lovely touch of sweetness and charm!
Tips & Variations
- To give your cookies an extra pop of flavor, try adding a pinch of lemon extract along with the lemon juice and zest.
- If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Serve these cookies with a cup of herbal tea or iced lemonade for a refreshing treat on a warm afternoon.
- For a nice twist, consider adding white chocolate chips or poppy seeds to the dough for added texture and taste.
Delicious Variations
- Classic Sugar Cookies: Soft and sweet, perfect for decorating or enjoying plain.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins: An excellent way to enjoy similar flavors in a fluffy muffin format.
- Orange Creamsicle Cookies: Similar zesty cookies with a creamy orange twist.
- Lime Sugar Cookies: For a tangy change, swap the lemons for limes!
Serving Suggestions for Soft Lemon Cookies
Serve these Soft Lemon Cookies at room temperature on a beautiful platter, perhaps dusted with powdered sugar to create an eye-catching presentation. They are perfect for afternoon tea, a summer picnic, or even as a sweet treat post-dinner. Pair them with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a delightful summer vibe. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert!
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Soft Lemon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to freeze them, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, and taste just as delightful when thawed!
Helpful Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can work, but it may change the flavor slightly.What can I substitute for granulated sugar?
You can use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative, but it might affect the texture.How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should be lightly golden around the edges while still soft in the center.Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.Why did my cookies spread too much?
This can happen if your butter was too warm or the dough was over-mixed. Try chilling the dough before baking next time!
Soft Lemon Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Soft Lemon Cookies are perfectly soft, tangy, and sweet, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- 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 sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon extract or white chocolate chips to the dough. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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