Name: Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; Zest of 2 large lemons Lemon Zest; 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Unsalted Butter, at room temperature; 1 large Egg; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar, for rolling cookies

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Nothing brings a smile to my face quite like a batch of Lemon Sugar Cookies. I remember the first time I baked them with my grandmother on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The sweet, citrusy aroma wafted through the house, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste before they were even out of the oven! These cookies are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, offering a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. They remind me of long summer days, filled with laughter, sunshine, and the warmth of family. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these Lemon Sugar Cookies are sure to brighten your day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
1g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7g g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Whisk

Why This Lemon Sugar Cookies Is a Winner

Bright Flavor

The first thing that stands out in these Lemon Sugar Cookies is their vibrant flavor. The zest of fresh lemons combined with the sweetness of sugar creates a delightful balance that’s refreshing and uplifting. It’s like a little burst of sunshine with every bite.

Perfect Texture

One of my favorite aspects of these cookies is their texture. The outside has a light crispness, while the inside remains wonderfully soft and chewy. This contrast makes for a truly satisfying cookie experience. Plus, the rolling in sugar before baking adds a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture.

Versatile Serving Options

These cookies are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack, a festive gathering, or even as part of a dessert table. You can enjoy them with a cup of tea, serve them at a birthday party, or even pack them in lunches for a sweet surprise!

Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive treat, these Lemon Sugar Cookies fit the bill. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Even if you’re a novice baker, you’ll find it easy to create these delightful cookies.

Great for Sharing

Baking these cookies is not just about enjoying them yourself; it’s also a wonderful way to connect with others. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or taking a batch to a neighbor, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and spark conversations.

Memory Maker

Finally, baking these cookies creates memories. They’ve been a staple in my family for years, and I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. Each batch tells a story and evokes fond memories. I hope that making these Lemon Sugar Cookies will create lasting memories for you and your family too.

Lemon Sugar Cookies Shopping List

When it comes to baking Lemon Sugar Cookies, the ingredients play an essential role in creating that perfect flavor and texture. Each component works in harmony to deliver a delightful treat. Here’s a look at the key players:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cookies, providing the necessary structure.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and achieve that fluffy interior.

Baking Powder: Provides additional lift for a lighter texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Lemon Zest: Adds a vibrant, citrusy flavor that makes these cookies special.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and creates a beautiful crust.
Unsalted Butter: Brings richness and enhances the overall flavor.
Egg: Acts as a binder, adding moisture and richness.
Lemon Juice: Provides acidity and deepens the lemon flavor.
Sugar (for rolling): Creates a sweet, crunchy coating.

The Process for Making Lemon Sugar Cookies

Baking Lemon Sugar Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Let’s dive into the steps together, making sure to capture every detail for the perfect cookie!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is essential for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a small bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, then set the bowl aside. This mixture forms the dry ingredients that will give structure to your cookies.
Next, take another small bowl and combine granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the lemon, infusing the sugar with a bright citrus aroma.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and the lemon-infused sugar mixture using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s light in color and fluffy.
Add in the egg, lemon juice, and a bit of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The addition of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the cookies, making them irresistibly zesty.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Using a tablespoon, scoop rounded balls of dough and roll them in granulated sugar for that perfect sugary coating. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they’re about 1.5 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Pop the cookies into the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are slightly brown and the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This resting time allows them to firm up a bit while still warm.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip the zest: The lemon zest is key to the flavor, so make sure to use fresh lemons.
Proper cooling: Allowing cookies to cool completely on a rack helps prevent sogginess.
Storage tips: An airtight container keeps cookies fresh, but adding a slice of bread helps maintain softness.

Experiment with flavors: You can try adding poppy seeds or a pinch of almond extract for a twist.

How to Switch It Up

There are so many fun ways to customize these Lemon Sugar Cookies. Here are some tips to try out:

Add a glaze: A simple lemon glaze on top can enhance the flavor and add a lovely shine.

Mix in nuts: Chopped pistachios or almonds can add a nice crunch and additional flavor.
Incorporate dried fruit: Adding dried cranberries or cherries can provide a delightful tartness.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar rolled on the cookies.

Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange zest for a different citrus profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving ideas to consider:

Afternoon Tea: Serve these cookies alongside a pot of herbal tea for a refreshing afternoon snack.

Birthday Parties: They make great additions to dessert tables and can be decorated with icing for celebration.
Picnics: Pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful treat while enjoying the outdoors.
Holiday Gatherings: These cookies can be a delightful addition to any festive spread, bringing a citrusy brightness.

With Ice Cream: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

FAQ

While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. The zest and juice from fresh lemons provide a vibrant taste that really make these Lemon Sugar Cookies stand out. If you must use bottled juice, try to find one without additives for a more authentic flavor.

To keep your Lemon Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also add a slice of bread to the container to help maintain their softness. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they’re well wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag.

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just roll the dough into balls and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, roll them in sugar and bake as directed. This is a great way to have fresh cookies on hand whenever you need them!

If your Lemon Sugar Cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure your butter is not too soft when mixing; it should be at room temperature but not melted. Additionally, check that you’re measuring your flour correctly—too little flour can lead to overly spread cookies. Lastly, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help reduce spreading.

Conclusion

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of sugar. Their unique flavor and satisfying texture make them a favorite in my household. I encourage you to give this recipe a try! I promise they will bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to those you share them with.

Lemon Sugar Cookies

Craving something sweet and zesty? These Lemon Sugar Cookies are just what you need! Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrus flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Bake a batch tonight for a delicious treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 36 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Oven
Mixing Bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
Zest of 2 large lemons Lemon Zest
1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
1 cup Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
1 large Egg
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar, for rolling cookies

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is essential for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

In a small bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, then set the bowl aside. This mixture forms the dry ingredients that will give structure to your cookies.
Next, take another small bowl and combine granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the lemon, infusing the sugar with a bright citrus aroma.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and the lemon-infused sugar mixture using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's light in color and fluffy.

Add in the egg, lemon juice, and a bit of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The addition of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the cookies, making them irresistibly zesty.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Using a tablespoon, scoop rounded balls of dough and roll them in granulated sugar for that perfect sugary coating. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they’re about 1.5 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Pop the cookies into the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are slightly brown and the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This resting time allows them to firm up a bit while still warm.