Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that balances sweetness with a refreshing citrus twist, these lemon cookies are the perfect choice. With a soft and chewy texture complemented by a zesty lemon flavor, they are sure to brighten your day. Ideal for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest from 3 lemons (divided: zest from 2 lemons for the dough, zest from 1 lemon for rolling)
½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Prep Time
1 hour
Cook Time
10-11 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Yield
Approximately 24 cookies
This recipe provides a straightforward approach to making delightful lemon cookies that not only look appealing but also taste amazing. Enjoy these treats fresh out of the oven, while they are still warm, or store them for later indulgence. Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat together until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring it is well-aerated.
Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Incorporate Egg and Zest
Add the large egg and the zest from 2 lemons to the mixture. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the dough is well combined and no dry flour is visible.
Step 7: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow it to firm up.
Step 8: Prepare Lemon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar with the zest from the third lemon. This will be used for rolling the cookie balls.
Step 9: Form Dough Balls
Once the dough is chilled, take a tablespoon or cookie scoop and form dough balls. Roll each ball thoroughly in the lemon-sugar mixture to coat.
Step 10: Arrange on Cookie Sheets
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets with a spacing of about 2 inches between each ball to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 11: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes. The tops should no longer appear wet, and you should see small cracks forming.
Step 12: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right texture and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Variations
For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking or experimenting with different citrus zest.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Creaming is the process of mixing softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture for cookies.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt ensures that these ingredients are evenly distributed. It also helps to aerate the flour, contributing to a lighter final product.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
When adding wet ingredients like eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, do so gradually. Mix until just combined to prevent overworking the dough, which can result in tough cookies.
Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough for at least one hour helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle. It also enhances the flavors and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Rolling in Sugar
Rolling cookie dough balls in a mixture of granulated sugar and lemon zest adds a flavorful crust to the cookies, enhancing their overall taste and presentation.
Baking
Baking the cookies at the right temperature (350°F) for the specified time allows them to bake evenly. Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be set at the edges but still soft in the center.
Cooling
Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes prior to transferring them to a cooling rack prevents them from breaking apart and helps them set properly.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the flavor slightly. If using salted butter, consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the tops are no longer wet and cracks begin to form. They should be lightly golden around the edges.
Can I substitute lemon juice with another citrus?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice, but the flavor will change accordingly.
What happens if I skip chilling the dough?
Skipping the chilling step may result in cookies that spread too much while baking and lack the desired texture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough. Portion it into balls, roll them in sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to three months.
How should I store the baked cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating or freezing them.
Conclusion
These delicious lemon cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Their bright flavor and soft texture are sure to please everyone, and with a dash of lemon zest rolled into sugar, they have an appealing finish that elevates their presentation. Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven or as a sweet addition to your dessert table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Add fresh or dried blueberries to the dough for a fruity twist that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
Lemon Almond Cookies
Incorporate almond flour or chopped almonds into the dough for a nutty flavor that complements the lemon zest.
Lemon Ginger Cookies
Mix in finely grated fresh ginger or ground ginger spice for a warm, spicy kick alongside the bright lemon.
Chocolate Dipped Lemon Cookies
Dip the finished cookies in melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent treat that adds richness.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Add poppy seeds to the dough for added texture and a subtle nuttiness that enhances the lemon flavor.
Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies
Incorporate cream cheese into the dough for ultra-soft cookies with a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the lemon.
Lemon Raspberry Cookies
Fold in fresh raspberries or raspberry preserves for a tart and sweet explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon.
