When the sun starts to shine brightly and the air is filled with that fresh, zesty scent of citrus, I can’t help but crave these Lemon Sugar Cookies. They remind me of lazy summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where she used to whip up a batch that would disappear in minutes. The bright flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of sugar, making every bite a delightful treat.
If you’re tired of the same old fast-food routine or just looking for a charming dessert to impress at your next gathering, look no further! These cookies are not only incredibly simple to make, with a total prep and bake time of just over 30 minutes, but they also bring joy and brightness to any occasion. Whether you’re brewing a cup of tea or enjoying a family movie night, these Lemon Sugar Cookies are sure to become a household favorite. Let’s get started on creating this deliciously zesty treat!
Why You'll Love This Lemon Sugar Cookies
- These Lemon Sugar Cookies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in just over 30 minutes.
- The bright and zesty lemon flavor combined with the sweetness of sugar creates a delightful taste that will leave everyone craving more.
- Their beautiful, golden appearance will make them a standout addition to any dessert table, catching the eye of all your guests.
- Plus, these cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a family movie night, making them perfect for any occasion.
Lemon Sugar Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake the most delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 2 3/4 cups to give the cookies structure and a soft texture.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon ensures the cookies have the perfect lightness.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened, creates a rich and creamy base for the dough.
- Granulated sugar – 1 1/2 cups adds that irresistible sweetness everyone loves.
- Large egg – 1, to bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon infuses a warm, inviting flavor that complements the lemon.
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons gives that zesty brightness that makes these cookies shine.
- Lemon zest – 1 tablespoon provides an extra punch of citrus flavor in every bite.
These ingredients combine beautifully to create the Lemon Sugar Cookies, sure to bring a smile to your face!
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the perfect baking environment for those delightful cookies! While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures your cookies will rise beautifully and have a delightful texture.
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Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl. Using 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, mix until it’s light and fluffy. This process creates air pockets for a tender cookie. Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until everything is fully combined.
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Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. You want a dough that holds its shape but isn’t too sticky.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Roll each portion into a ball and coat it with granulated sugar, giving your cookies a lovely, sugary exterior. Arrange them on the baking sheets, leaving plenty of space in between for spreading, and bake for 9–11 minutes or until lightly golden.
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Cool the cookies on the pan for 5 minutes. After that, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to set perfectly and avoids a soggy bottom.
Optional: Dust with additional lemon zest for a bright and beautiful garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Lemon Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions that will make your Lemon Sugar Cookies even more exciting!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for delicious gluten-free cookies everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Swap the egg for 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based treat.
- Coconut Bliss: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough for an inviting tropical twist that complements lemon beautifully.
- Zesty Lime: Replace lemon juice and zest with lime for a tangy alternative that brings a refreshing zing to your cookies.
- Chocolate Chip Add-In: Mix in 1 cup of white or dark chocolate chips for a sweet contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Herbal Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the dough for a surprisingly delightful herbal note.
- Cinnamon Sugar Roll: Roll the cookie balls in a mix of cinnamon and sugar before baking for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Spicy Option: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a kick that balances the sweetness and brings some heat to each bite.
With these variations, your baking adventure with Lemon Sugar Cookies is bound to be both colorful and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet, homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies. This way, you’ll always have a delightful batch ready to impress at any gathering, while saving precious time during your busy week!
What to Serve with Lemon Sugar Cookies?
These delightful treats are perfect for brightening up any gathering or cozy evening at home.
- Iced Tea: The refreshing taste of iced tea balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect pairing for a sunny afternoon.
- Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade enhances the zesty lemon flavor in the cookies, creating an uplifting experience for all.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess, creating a classic contrast to the bright and sugary cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with berries and citrus complements the cookies, adding freshness and a burst of color to your dessert spread.
- Coffee: The rich, earthy flavor of coffee provides a wonderful contrast, making it a cozy option for your evening treat.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzling a bit of chocolate over the cookies can add a decadent touch to the zesty sweetness of each bite.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream not only looks beautiful but also adds an airy lightness that matches the cookie’s texture.
- Sparkling Water: A fizzy option like sparkling water can cleanse the palate, allowing guests to appreciate the lemon flavor fully.
- Cheesecake: For a more indulgent dessert pairing, a slice of light cheesecake balances perfectly with the sweet and zesty cookies.
- Pineapple Sorbet: This tropical treat offers a refreshing and tangy flavor, enhancing the lemony goodness of your cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep Lemon Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them fresh for a longer time, store the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Lemon Sugar Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Lemon Sugar Cookies, ensure your butter is fully softened for easier creaming with sugar, which helps incorporate air for a fluffier texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies; just mix until combined.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest to enhance the vibrant citrus flavor that sets these cookies apart.
- Keep an eye on the baking time and remove the cookies from the oven when they are lightly golden for the perfect balance of chewy and soft texture.
Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of lemon should I use for my Lemon Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! Using fresh lemons is key to achieving the vibrant flavor in these cookies. Look for lemons that are firm, with a bright yellow color and a slightly glossy skin. Avoid those with dark spots or dull skin, as they may be past their prime.
How should I store my Lemon Sugar Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their shelf-life, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay good for about a week.
Can I freeze Lemon Sugar Cookies? If so, how?
Very! Freezing these delightful cookies is simple. First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. After that, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels too sticky, it’s often a sign that you may need to add a little extra flour. Start by adding just a tablespoon at a time until you reach a soft, workable consistency. Just remember, don’t overmix once you add the flour, or they may turn out tough!
Are Lemon Sugar Cookies safe for those with allergies?
It depends! These cookies contain common allergens such as gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter). If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy alternatives, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Always check labels to ensure safety for specific dietary needs.
Lemon Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until fully combined.
- Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, coat with granulated sugar, and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Cool the cookies on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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