Glazed Lemon Sugar Cookies

Glazed lemon sugar cookies are soft, buttery treats with a zesty lemon flavor and a sweet, tangy glaze. Perfect for lemon lovers, these cookies are simple to make and ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, buttery cookies with a bright lemon flavor.
• A tangy glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
• Simple to make with basic pantry ingredients.
• Customizable with decorations or variations.
• Perfect for gifting, tea parties, or dessert spreads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cookies:
  • Unsalted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
• Glaze:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
   • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Lightly press the tops with your fingers or the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
   • Stir in lemon zest for extra flavor, if desired.
5. Glaze the Cookies:
   • Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spread the glaze over the tops.
   • Let the glaze set for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Lemon-Lime Twist: Use a mix of lemon and lime juice/zest for a citrusy medley.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Berry Lemon: Add fresh or freeze-dried raspberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
• Vanilla Lemon: Add a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste to the glaze for added depth.
• Coconut Lemon: Mix shredded coconut into the dough or sprinkle it over the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature; no reheating required.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and brightness.

2. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

3. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir before using.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles well for larger batches.

6. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

7. Can I add food coloring to the glaze?

Yes, add a drop or two of food coloring for festive or themed cookies.

8. Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Yes, almond extract pairs beautifully with lemon for a nutty flavor twist.

9. What’s the best way to apply the glaze?

Use a spoon or a small offset spatula for even spreading, or drizzle it for a decorative look.

10. Are these cookies good for gifting?

Definitely! Their vibrant flavor and elegant appearance make them ideal for gifting.

Conclusion

Glazed lemon sugar cookies are a refreshing and zesty dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture and sweet, tangy glaze, these cookies are a hit with both kids and adults. Easy to make and versatile enough for customization, they’re a must-try for lemon lovers everywhere. Bake a batch today and savor the bright, citrusy goodness!

Print