Lemon Buttermilk Cookies

There’s something truly magical about baking that always brings me joy, and Lemon Buttermilk Cookies hold a special place in my heart. I still remember the first time I baked these cookies in my cozy kitchen, the sun shining through the window, filling the space with warmth. The scent of fresh lemons wafted through the air, invigorating my senses and making my mouth water. It’s an experience that transcends just the act of cooking; it becomes a celebration of flavors and memories. These cookies are delightfully soft and chewy, with a tangy glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. They’re not just cookies; they embody the essence of sunny days and cheerful gatherings.

Key Ingredients for Lemon Buttermilk Cookies

When creating Lemon Buttermilk Cookies, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each ingredient is carefully selected to work harmoniously together. For instance, the buttermilk not only adds moisture but also brings a subtle tang that complements the lemon zest beautifully. Let’s dive into the key players that make these cookies so special.

• 1 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our cookies, giving them structure.
• Zest of two lemons – This brings a bright and refreshing citrus flavor that elevates the cookie.
• ¼ tsp baking soda – A key leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ¼ tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature – Adds richness and helps achieve that soft texture.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies while also contributing to their tender crumb.
• 1 large egg – Provides moisture and binds the ingredients together.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the lemon.
• 1/3 cup well-shaken buttermilk – Contributes to the cookie’s tenderness and adds that delightful tang.
• ¾ cup confectioners sugar, sifted (for the glaze) – Sweetens the glaze to create a perfect topping.
• 1 ½ Tbsp well-shaken buttermilk (for the glaze) – Ensures the glaze is smooth and creamy.
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract (for the glaze) – Adds depth to the glaze flavor.
• ½ tsp lemon zest (for the glaze) – Enhances the lemony essence of the cookies.

Step by Step Instructions for Lemon Buttermilk Cookies

Making Lemon Buttermilk Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Follow these personal steps to create your own batch of delicious cookies that will surely impress anyone who tastes them.

1. Start by lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners. This step ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. Preheat your oven to 350°F, allowing it to reach the perfect temperature while you prepare the cookie dough.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, lemon zest, baking soda, and salt. This mixture creates the dry ingredients that will give your cookies their structure. Make sure it’s well combined to avoid any clumps of baking soda.
3. Next, in the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter briefly until creamy. This is a crucial step, as creamy butter incorporates air into the dough, helping it rise. Once creamy, gradually add the sugar, beating until pale and fluffy. This should take a few minutes, so be patient!
4. Add in the egg and beat well to mix. Follow this by incorporating the vanilla extract, mixing briefly to avoid over-beating. You want everything to be combined without losing that fluffiness you’ve built up.
5. Now, mix in the flour mixture and the buttermilk in batches at low speed. Begin with your flour mixture, followed by buttermilk, and repeat until everything is just combined. It’s important not to overmix; you want to maintain that tender texture.
6. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. This ensures all ingredients are well incorporated and nothing is left stuck to the sides. It’s a simple but important step!
7. Using a tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 ½ inches between each cookie. This spacing allows them to spread without merging together.
8. Bake one sheet at a time for about 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. This timing may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on them!
9. Once baked, cool the cookies on the baking sheet for about 1 minute; then transfer them to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential to achieving that perfect chewy texture.
10. For the glaze, whisk together the sifted confectioners sugar, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish to your cookies, making them even more irresistible!
11. Finally, brush or spoon the glaze onto the warm cookies, allowing it to set as they cool. Enjoy your fragrant, delicious Lemon Buttermilk Cookies!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to adapt Lemon Buttermilk Cookies to suit your taste and preferences. Here are some tips to get creative with this delightful recipe:

• Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Mix-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra treat!
• Variations: Experiment with different citrus zest, like orange or lime, for a unique flavor twist.

Serve This Lemon Buttermilk Cookies With

When it comes to enjoying Lemon Buttermilk Cookies, there are plenty of delightful ways to serve them. Here are some ideas:

• Afternoon Tea: Pair these cookies with a nice cup of tea for a sophisticated snack.
• Potluck Gatherings: They make a great contribution to any potluck; everyone will appreciate a sweet treat!
• Lunch Boxes: These cookies fit perfectly in lunch boxes, adding a sweet surprise to any meal.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Enjoy them during spring and summer celebrations, as their bright flavor is perfect for warm weather.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit for a light and refreshing dessert option.
• For Special Occasions: These cookies can easily be dressed up for birthdays or gatherings with friends.
• With Ice Cream: Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a delicious twist!

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Buttermilk Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a delightful way to bring sunshine into your day. Their unique tangy flavor and soft texture make them a memorable dessert that everyone will love. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself and experience the joy that comes from baking these delicious cookies. You won’t regret it!

Lemon Buttermilk Cookies

Craving something sweet yet refreshing? These Lemon Buttermilk Cookies are your answer! With their soft texture and zesty glaze, they offer a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. Bake a batch tonight and share the joy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 11 minutes mins

Total Time 21 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• Zest of two lemons lemon zest
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup well-shaken buttermilk
• ¾ cup confectioners sugar sifted
• 1 ½ Tbsp well-shaken buttermilk
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp lemon zest

Instructions

 

• Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, lemon zest, baking soda, and salt.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter briefly, until creamy. Add the sugar, and beat until pale and fluffy.
• Add the egg, and beat well to mix. Add the vanilla extract, and beat briefly again.
• Mix in the flour mixture and the buttermilk in batches at low speed, beginning and ending with the flour.
• Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
• Drop the dough by level tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 ½ inches between each cookie.
• Bake, 1 sheet at a time, for about 11 minutes per batch. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 1 minute; then transfer them to a wire rack.
• For the glaze, whisk together the sifted confectioners sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add in lemon zest. Brush or spoon the glaze onto the warm cookies.
• Allow cookies to sit on the rack until the glaze is set.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Tip 2: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: Pair these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Tip 4: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra treat!
• Tip 5: Experiment with different citrus zest, like orange or lime, for a unique flavor twist.

Keyword Buttermilk Desserts, citrus cookies, Easy Cookie Recipe, Lemon Cookies