If you’re craving a sweet and zesty twist on a classic sugar cookie, look no further than these Lemon Sugar Cookies. Perfectly balanced with a burst of citrus and a touch of sweetness, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting, optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg until well combined. Then, mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The lemon zest and juice will add a fresh, tangy flavor to the dough.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a classic touch, you can gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers should still be soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Lemon Glaze: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Sugar Cookies:
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and may alter the taste.
- Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky to handle, chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can make it easier to shape and handle.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when they’re soft in the center. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake and become too crisp.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Sugar Cookies:
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a refreshing burst of citrus in every bite. Their soft, tender texture and sweet-tart flavor make them perfect for any occasion, and they’re sure to impress guests and family alike. Whether enjoyed as a light dessert or a sweet treat with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Serving and Storage Tips for Lemon Sugar Cookies
Serving Tips:
- Presentation: Arrange your Lemon Sugar Cookies on a decorative platter or tiered stand for a visually appealing display. Garnish with a few lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pairing Suggestions: These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with a cup of tea, a glass of lemonade, or even a light white wine for a sophisticated treat. They also complement a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Serving Temperature: Lemon Sugar Cookies can be enjoyed at room temperature, where they’re soft and flavorful. For a slightly different experience, try them chilled from the refrigerator, which can enhance their refreshing citrus flavor.
- Portion Control: Since these cookies are quite delightful, consider portioning them into smaller, bite-sized pieces if serving at a large gathering. This allows guests to enjoy multiple treats without overindulging.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store Lemon Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They should stay fresh and maintain their soft texture if kept in a cool, dry place.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store the cookies for a longer period, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors.
- Freezing: For extended storage, Lemon Sugar Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Frosted Cookies: If you’ve applied a lemon glaze or frosting, it’s best to store the cookies in a single layer to avoid smudging the frosting. Keep them in an airtight container and refrigerate if necessary.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Lemon Sugar Cookies remain as delicious and fresh as the day they were baked. Enjoy these tangy treats any time, knowing that they’re easy to keep and serve!
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice for this recipe?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a brighter, more vibrant citrus taste compared to bottled varieties, which can sometimes be overly acidic or lacking in freshness.
2. How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can prepare Lemon Sugar Cookies ahead of time by baking them and then storing them properly. Once the cookies are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies as described in the storage tips. If you prefer, you can also freeze the cookie dough in advance and bake fresh cookies as needed.
3. Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?
If your Lemon Sugar Cookies spread too much, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure that your butter is properly softened, but not melted, before mixing. Over-mixing the dough can also lead to excess spreading. Chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading and help the cookies hold their shape better.
4. Can I add mix-ins to these Lemon Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! You can customize your Lemon Sugar Cookies by adding mix-ins such as white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts. Just fold the mix-ins into the dough gently before baking. Be mindful of the added ingredients’ moisture content, as this can affect the cookies’ texture.