Description
Soft and tender lemon sugar cookies with a bright citrus flavor and a delicate sugary coating. These cookies have lightly crisp edges, a soft center, and a refreshing homemade lemon aroma that makes them perfect for a sweet snack or simple dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- For stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or drizzle a lemon glaze over cooled cookies.
- White chocolate chips pair well with the citrus flavor.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of poppy seeds for texture and visual contrast.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft in the center.
- Cookie dough balls can be frozen and baked later by adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 55 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg
