Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh lemon cookies! These Lemon Sugar Cookies are not just any cookies; they are a melt-in-your-mouth treat that offers a zesty twist to your traditional sugar cookie. With their golden edges and soft, chewy centers, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to festive gatherings. Let’s dive into the bright and sunny flavors of these cookies that will surely brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Granulated sugar for rolling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking those cookies to golden perfection!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will create a wonderful base for your cookies.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Beat in the egg, along with the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined and bursting with flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to maintain that lovely, tender texture.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Scoop tablespoons of the chilled dough, roll them into delightful balls, and then roll each one in granulated sugar for a sweet finish.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, leaving you with cookies that are chewy and ever-so-slightly crisp.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly!
Notes or Tips
For an extra lemony punch, feel free to add more lemon zest. You can also replace the granulated sugar for rolling with powdered sugar for a different aesthetic and sweetness. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or share them with friends and family for a heartwarming treat!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, take your time to make it light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie texture. Additionally, the chilling process is essential. It not only helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t skip it!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just adjust the baking time slightly.
How should I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week, though they probably won’t last that long!
Conclusion
Now that you have this recipe, it’s time to create your own batch of these wonderful Lemon Sugar Cookies. With their delightful citrus flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet bite of your creations!