Lemon Sugar Cookies
When it comes to cookie recipes, Lemon Sugar Cookies deliver a burst of sunshine in every bite. Imagine golden, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth, infused with the bright zest and tangy sweet notes of fresh lemons. These cookies are not only simple to make but also evoke fond memories of childhood baking sessions—complete with flour-covered counters and the laughter of loved ones. For those seeking a sweet treat that can be made in under an hour, this recipe stands out as the ultimate indulgence that both kids and adults will adore. Let the irresistible aroma dance through your kitchen as you whip up this delightful, crave-worthy treat!
Ready for a Sweet Escape?
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about the perfect cookie? You know, the kind that transports you to a sun-soaked afternoon, with laughter in the air and a golden hue that beckons? Picture digging your teeth into a soft, chewy Lemon Sugar Cookie, with sweet and tart flavors mingling on your palate. When was the last time a cookie made you feel this way?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Fast Prep: In just about 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can be on your way to cookie bliss.
-
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, kids’ parties, and potlucks, guaranteed to disappear quickly.
-
Minimal Ingredients: Low on fuss, this recipe shines with a few common pantry staples.
-
Nostalgic Vibes: Baking these cookies can evoke cherished memories and create new ones, perfect for the family.
-
Versatile: Enjoy them as-is or dress them up with frosting or sprinkles!
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
1.5 cups granulated sugar (300 g)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice (60 ml)
3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 cup extra granulated sugar (for rolling)
Picture the creamy softness of the butter as you beat it into fluffy clouds alongside the sugar, which will add the perfect sweetness. Fresh lemon zest adds a zesty punch, while the juice brings a refreshing tang—you can almost smell that citrus perfume already!
Timing
If you’re looking for fast and indulgent treats, these Lemon Sugar Cookies can be whipped up in no time! Expect about 30 minutes for the cookie dough to chill and about 10 minutes in the oven. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor those fragrant, citrusy scents wafting through your kitchen.
But if you’re in the mood for a slow, luxurious experience, why not take your time? Savor the moment as you mix, chill, and bake—because great flavors deserve a little patience too.
Step-by-Step
-
Whip It Good: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1½ cups of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes. The butter should transform into a beautiful cream that looks irresistible!
-
Egg-cellent Addition: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice until thoroughly combined. The blend should start to take on that sun-kissed hue, inviting you to take a taste.
-
Dry Ingredients Unite: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter concoction on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix! You want it to come together in a soft, sticky dough that promises delightful texture.
-
Chill Out: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is vital for firming up the dough for rolling, making it less messy and more manageable.
-
Bake It Like You Mean It: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Pour the additional ½ cup of granulated sugar into a shallow bowl.
-
Roll with the Punches: Once the dough has chilled, roll it into 1-inch balls. Delight in the feel of the dough in your hands! Roll each ball in the sugar to coat, then place them with confidence on the prepared baking sheets, keeping them about 2 inches apart.
-
Set and Soft: Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft and slightly underdone. Let them rest for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
With the bright, citrusy aroma filling the air and the promise of gooey cookies waiting, it’s hard to resist that first bite.
Nutritional Information
Each Lemon Sugar Cookie clocks in at approximately 150 calories. Keep in mind that while cookies are meant to be indulgent, they can still be enjoyed in moderation.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten these cookies a bit, consider swapping out the granulated sugar for a low-sugar alternative. For dairy-free versions, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. These adjustments can allow you to indulge a little while keeping your health goals in mind.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Sugar Cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a hot summer day. You can also elegantly serve them for tea parties, festive gatherings, or as delightful holiday treats when nostalgia fills the air.
Common Mistakes
-
Overbaking: Cookies that are even slightly overbaked can lose their gooeyness and become dry. Make sure to keep an eye on them!
-
Texture Issues: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Ensure you give it the time it needs!
-
Messes: Measuring flour can get a bit messy! We recommend pouring it into a big piece of clean parchment paper for easy transfer without a fuss.
Storing Tips
You can store Lemon Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to save them for a later date, place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to three months. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer for an indulgent treat any time!
Tempted to Bake?
There’s no denying that these Lemon Sugar Cookies are something you need to experience. The bright flavor, comforting texture, and fluffy goodness make them the perfect treat to share (or keep all to yourself!). Don’t wait too long; indulge in this delightful baking adventure right away!
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh juice provides a brighter flavor that truly enhances the cookies.
2. What if I don’t have lemon zest?
You can still bake these cookies but try to substitute with a bit more lemon juice to maintain moisture.
3. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.
4. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, but the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up while cooling.
5. Are these cookies suitable for vegan diets?
You can create a vegan version using a suitable egg substitute and a plant-based butter alternative.
Lemon Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Lemon Sugar Cookies infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, perfect for family gatherings and nostalgic baking sessions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar (300 g)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
- 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice (60 ml)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup extra granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1½ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture on low speed until just combined.
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, roll in extra sugar, and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute granulated sugar with a low-sugar alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
