Lemon Sugar Cookies

There’s something undeniably refreshing and uplifting about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon in baked goods. These Lemon Sugar Cookies bring a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, creating a delightful treat that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with citrus goodness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual afternoon snack, or just because you love lemon-flavored sweets, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of cookies that are not overly sweet but packed with flavor, these lemon sugar cookies are exactly what you need. The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, and the process is straightforward enough for bakers of all skill levels. What sets this cookie apart is the use of fresh lemon zest and lemon juice, which give it a genuine citrus punch without any artificial flavoring.

The texture is another highlight: these cookies are crisp around the edges but remain tender and chewy in the center. Plus, they have a beautiful golden color, thanks to the sugar coating that caramelizes slightly during baking. They’re perfect for those who love the fresh, bright taste of lemon in a classic cookie form. Whether you’re making cookies for a party, a bake sale, or just an everyday treat, this recipe will deliver consistent, delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How To Make Lemon Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your cookies rise properly and have the perfect texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and 1 ½ cups sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that tender crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Add Egg, Lemon, and Vanilla

Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. The lemon zest and juice provide the fresh citrus flavor that makes these cookies so special.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Shape and Roll in Sugar

Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out dough balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, then place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. The sugar coating creates a delightful crunchy exterior that contrasts nicely with the soft center.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and chewy.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up without becoming hard.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh lemon zest and juice: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons. The zest contains essential oils that provide intense lemon aroma and taste.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can develop gluten, making cookies tough instead of tender.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and to help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Measure flour properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour into the measuring cup, which can result in dry cookies.
• Test bake: Bake one or two cookies first to check the texture and flavor. Adjust baking time if necessary based on your oven.

Variations and Customizations

• Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cookies for an extra tangy finish.
• Lavender Lemon Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the dough to infuse a floral note that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Dip in White Chocolate: For a decadent twist, dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate and allow it to set.
• Use Lemon Extract: If fresh lemons are not available, substitute fresh lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, but reduce or omit the vanilla extract to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your lemon sugar cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQ

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can use margarine as an alternative. However, keep in mind that margarine may slightly alter the taste and texture of the cookies.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overworking the dough. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can also help the cookies hold their shape better.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based butter alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon zest is vital for the authentic lemon flavor. If fresh lemons are unavailable, consider using lemon extract and a bit of lemon zest from dried lemon peel if possible.

Conclusion

These lemon sugar cookies are a bright, flavorful twist on a classic treat that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes them. With their soft, chewy centers and crisp, sugary edges, they perfectly balance sweet and tangy in every bite. The recipe is simple, approachable, and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any baker’s collection. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a drizzle of glaze, or dipped in chocolate, these cookies are bound to become a go-to favorite. So grab your mixing bowls, zest some lemons, and get ready to bake up a batch of sunshine with these irresistible lemon sugar cookies!