Introduction
Lemon pound cake cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavors of pound cake with the bright, zesty essence of lemon. These cookies are easy to prepare and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a festive gathering. With a simple list of ingredients and quick steps, you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies that will brighten up your day.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 box lemon pound cake mix
– 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon extract
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) softened butter
For the glaze (if the pound cake mix does not include a glaze packet):
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 to 3 tablespoons water or milk
– 1 teaspoon lemon extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
Preparation for lemon pound cake cookies takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, mixing, and rolling the dough into balls.
Cook Time
The cookies will bake for about 8 minutes, yielding a perfectly soft and chewy texture.
Total Time
The entire process from start to finish, including prep and bake time, totals around 25 minutes.
Yield
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of the dough balls you roll out, making it a great option for sharing.
Enjoy these zesty delights with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve them at your next gathering for a sweet twist that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine the lemon pound cake mix, 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon extract, 1 large egg, and 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) softened butter. Mix with the paddle attachment for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Form the Dough Balls
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with a baking mat or parchment paper.
Step 4: Flatten the Dough Balls
Using a small glass dipped in powdered sugar, gently press down on each dough ball to flatten them slightly.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a baking rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
If the pound cake mix includes a glaze packet, prepare it according to the package instructions. If there is no glaze packet, in a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or milk, 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze
After the cookies have cooled, drizzle the prepared glaze over the top of each cookie.
Notes
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Texture and Adjustments
For a thicker glaze, use less liquid; for a thinner glaze, add more liquid gradually.
Flavor Variation
To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding additional lemon zest to the dough or glaze.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to ensure that the pound cake mix is thoroughly combined with the lemon extract, egg, and softened butter. This method helps achieve a smooth and uniform dough.
Shaping Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls for even cookies. This size allows for proper baking and an ideal texture.
Flattening Cookies
Dipping a glass in powdered sugar and gently pressing down on the dough balls helps create a nice shape and prevents them from puffing up too much during baking.
Baking Temperature
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure cookies bake evenly and achieve a golden color. Using an oven thermometer can help verify the correct temperature.
Cooling Method
Allow the cookies to cool on a baking rack after baking to prevent them from becoming soggy and to maintain their crisp texture.
Making Glaze
If not using a premade glaze, whisk powdered sugar with water or milk and flavorings until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if it’s too thick.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can experiment with other cake mix flavors, but note that it will change the overall taste of the cookies.
How can I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after shaping it into balls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for lemon extract?
You can use fresh lemon juice or zest for a more natural flavor, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be slightly firm on the edges and soft in the center. They will continue to set as they cool.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Certainly! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins before rolling the dough into balls for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This lemon pound cake cookie recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the refreshing and zesty flavor of lemon in a fun, cookie form. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these cookies can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with a simple glaze for added sweetness.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Incorporate fresh blueberries into your lemon pound cake mix for a delicious fruit-filled muffin.
Lemon Zest Cheesecake Bars
Combine lemon zest and juice into a creamy cheesecake filling baked on a graham cracker crust for a tangy dessert.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread
Add poppy seeds to your lemon pound cake mix for a delightful twist and added texture in a quick bread.
Lemon Curd Tart
Make a buttery tart shell and fill it with homemade lemon curd for an elegant dessert that showcases lemon flavor.
Lemon Sugar Cookies
Enhance your standard sugar cookie recipe with lemon extract and zest for a refreshing citrus twist on a classic treat.
Lemon Cake Pops
Use the lemon pound cake mix to create delicious cake pops, dipped in white chocolate and decorated for a fun dessert.
Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
Make thumbprint cookies using lemon-flavored dough and fill the centers with lemon curd for an extra burst of citrus.
