Lemon Cookies
Lemon cookies are a delightful combination of sweetness and citrusy zing that makes them a perfect treat for any time of the year. With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavor, these cookies will be a hit at your next gathering or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring a burst of sunshine to your cookie jar!
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 100 calories, 4g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. This is based on a standard lemon cookie size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until fluffy. 3. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 4. Stir in the zest of 2 lemons and the juice of 1 lemon. 5. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. 6. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until well incorporated. 7. Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 8. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon. 9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. 10. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar. 
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to experiment, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour can also create a gluten-free alternative, although the texture may vary slightly.
Serving and Pairings
These lemon cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served with fresh fruit, ice cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store your lemon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately may affect the texture.
- Using too little flour can make cookies spread too much.
- Underbaking will lead to doughy centers.
- Forgetting to chill the dough can alter the final shape.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes for a better texture.
- Experiment with different citrus zests for a unique twist.
- Dust cookies with powdered sugar right before serving for a fresh look.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough before baking or adding a bit more flour to the mix.
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?
Absolutely! Lemon extract can be used, but it’s best to use it in smaller amounts as it is more concentrated than fresh juice.
What’s the best way to store lemon cookies?
Store your lemon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
Yes, feel free to add poppy seeds, lavender, or even a hint of vanilla to enhance the flavor profile of the cookies.
Conclusion
Lemon cookies are a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a zesty punch. They are simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven or stored for later—it’s hard to eat just one!
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until well incorporated.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar.