Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe!

Baking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a moment—a sprinkle of sunshine in your day. When life gives you lemons, a bright and zesty treat is the ideal way to embrace them. These Lemon Sugar Cookies offer that refreshing burst of citrus you didn’t know you needed. They’re soft, sweet, and packed with vibrant lemon flavor that awakens your senses. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these cookies bring a bit of cheer into any room.

Picture a warm kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods. As you pull these golden cookies from the oven, the warmth wraps around you like a hug. The sweet notes of sugar combined with the tang of lemon create a beautiful contrast that feels like a slice of summer, even on the dreariest of days. This recipe for lemon sugar cookies captures that essence, balancing simplicity with delightful flavors. Not only are they easy to make, but they also become a comforting staple you’ll want to return to again and again.

Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need

Before diving into this sweet adventure, gather a few key tools that will make your baking experience seamless. Having the right kitchen essentials at your fingertips will not only enhance your efficiency but also the output of your baking.

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes for combining ingredients.
Electric mixer: For perfectly creamed butter and sugar.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key when baking.
Cookie scoop: This makes portioning your dough easier and ensures uniform cookies.
Baking sheet: A sturdy one will give you evenly baked cookies.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and less sticking.

Having these tools ready will make the baking process so much more enjoyable and streamlined.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these lemon sugar cookies. Let’s explore the highlights that make them unforgettable:

Bright Flavor: With the zing of lemon juice and zest, each bite has a refreshing citrus punch that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a little ray of sunshine in cookie form.
Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies come out soft, chewy, and slightly crisp at the edges, creating a delightful contrast that you won’t be able to resist.
Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly. Whip it up in less than an hour, making it perfect for spontaneous baking sessions or when friends drop by.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or paired with tea, they fit any occasion. Serve them at a gathering, package them as gifts, or enjoy them solo with a good book.
Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking cookies. They evoke nostalgia and create warm memories that you can share with others.

Once you try these lemon sugar cookies, they will become a staple in your home, bringing comfort and joy to your days.

Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe! Ingredients

Here we go! Let’s prepare to bake some delicious treats. You’ll need the following ingredients for the cookies and the glaze to achieve the perfect finish.

Cookie Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 1/2 cups of unbleached flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Glaze Ingredients:

1 cup powdered sugar
5 teaspoons lemon juice
Drops of vanilla (optional)

With these simple staples, you can create something truly delightful!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Use your electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, resulting in soft cookies.
Next, add the large egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the bowl. Mix until well combined—a wonderful aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Begin to stir in the dry ingredients: unbleached flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tougher cookie.
Using a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 1.5 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 7 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they should be slightly golden at the edges while remaining soft in the middle.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes transferring them easier.
While your cookies cool, make the glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with lemon juice. Add a couple drops of vanilla if you wish. Mix until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a touch more lemon juice or water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let them cool completely. The glaze will harden as it sits, giving a beautiful, shiny finish.

Fun Variations You Can Try

Getting creative in the kitchen is what makes baking so fun! Here are some delightful variations you might explore to make these lemon sugar cookies your own.

Herbed Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist that beautifully complements the lemon.
Lemon Coconut Sugar Cookies: Fold in shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flavor burst.
Stuffed Cookies: Place a small piece of lemon curd or cream cheese filling in the center of the dough. This will create a delightful surprise when you bite in!
Add Some Color: Incorporate lemon-flavored food coloring into your glaze. This will make your cookies visually striking, perfect for celebrations.
Chill the Dough: If you prefer sturdier cookies, wrap the dough in plastic and chill it for one hour before baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape.

These variations can elevate your baking game and keep things exciting!

How I Love to Serve It

Serving these lemon sugar cookies can be as delightful as baking them. Here are some of my favorite ways to present these little gems that will surely impress your family and friends.

With Afternoon Tea: Imagine an afternoon gathering where you serve these alongside a steaming pot of herbal tea. The citrusy flavors harmonize beautifully with tea, inviting warmth and relaxation.
On a Platter: Layer the cookies on a bright, colorful platter. Add slices of fresh lemon or edible flowers for decoration—it turns a simple treat into a beautiful centerpiece.
With Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble a cookie on top of a bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that captures both warmth and chill.
As Party Favors: Package them neatly in a clear bag with a ribbon for party favors. A printed tag adds a personalized touch that shows your guests just how much you care.
With a Glaze Variations: Instead of the traditional glaze, use a citrus-flavored glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a different look and taste.

These presentation ideas not only make serving fun but also create a lovely atmosphere for any gathering.

Helpful Tips from My Kitchen

Here are some practical tips to ensure your lemon sugar cookies come out perfect every time:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This allows for better incorporation, leading to a lighter dough.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close watch on your cookies. They can go from perfect to overdone very quickly. They should look slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven.
Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest create a more intense, vibrant flavor than bottled options. They make all the difference.
Experiment with Glazes: Try using different liquid bases in your glaze, like orange juice or even a splash of honey, for diverse flavor profiles.
Follow Up with a Chill: After glazing, consider refrigerating the cookies for a bit. This will set the glaze firmly and enhance the overall flavor.

These tips will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to feel like a pro in the kitchen.

Important Cooking Reminders

When baking, it’s essential to keep some reminders in mind for safety and quality. Here are a few:

Always Preheat the Oven: This is crucial for ensuring that cookies bake evenly.
Storage Tips: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Reheating Guidance: If you need to reheat cookies, do so in the microwave for just a few seconds or back in the oven at a low temperature.
Common Mistakes: Be cautious of overmixing or adding too much flour; both can lead to dry cookies. Measure carefully!
Watch for Allergens: Keep in mind your guests’ dietary restrictions and make any necessary adjustments to the recipe.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your baking stays smooth and enjoyable.

Nutritional Information (Estimated)

Each lemon sugar cookie is a joyful indulgence, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and zest while still being a treat that you can enjoy socially or when craving comfort. The estimated nutritional breakdown might look something like this:

Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
Carbohydrates: About 15 grams
Fat: Roughly 5 grams
Protein: Around 1 gram

Bear in mind that these values can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements used. Always be sure to adjust accordingly if you’re modifying the recipe.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Common Questions You Might Have

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! If you only have salted butter on hand, just skip the added salt in the recipe. It’ll still taste delicious.

How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep well for about a week, but be prepared—they may not last that long!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; pop them directly into the oven and just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

Conclusion

Baking lemon sugar cookies is not just about the final product, but the joyful moments throughout the process. From the creaming of the butter and sugar to the aromatic bliss that fills your kitchen, each step carries a sense of comfort and warmth. Whether you’re sharing these cookies with friends, gifting them to neighbors, or enjoying them quietly with a cup of tea, the experience is always enriching.

Through these lemon sugar cookies, you’ll find a way to create happiness, memories, and delicious flavors that brighten up any day. So gather your loved ones, let laughter fill your home, and take a moment to relish the small things—like the sweet, zesty reminder that life can be a little slice of sunshine when we allow it to be. Let this recipe inspire your baking adventures, and remember, each cookie can be the sweet ending to someone’s day. The joy of baking is truly in the journey, along with those lemony smiles along the way.

Enjoy these lemon sugar cookies, and watch as they bring light and joy to your everyday moments!

Lemon Sugar Cookies

Author: admin
Total Time: 30
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Soft and chewy lemon sugar cookies bursting with vibrant lemon flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 1/2 cups unbleached flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
5 teaspoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Drops of vanilla (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing well.
Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until just combined.
Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls onto the baking sheet with space in between.
Bake for about 7 minutes until slightly golden at the edges.
Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies and let set completely.

Notes

Remember to use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overbaking.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 7
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: lemon cookies, sugar cookies, dessert, baking