Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

• • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180 g)
  • 1 tsp baking soda (5 g)

 

• • ½ tsp baking powder (2 g)
  • ¼ tsp salt (1 g)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227 g)

 

• • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)

 

• • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (2 g)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)

 

Directions

Make the Cookie Dough:

1. 1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
   2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
   3. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

 

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.

Chill the Dough:

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and ensures a soft, chewy texture.

Shape and Roll the Cookies:

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

 

1. 1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
   2. Roll each dough ball in the ½ cup of sugar to coat the cookie before placing them onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart.
   3. Gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to about ¼-inch thickness.

 

Bake the Cookies:

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies may look a bit soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• • With a cup of tea: These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, especially in the afternoon.

 

• • For a dessert platter: Serve alongside other cookies or desserts for a delightful variety.
  • With frosting: If you want to take these cookies to the next level, top them with a light lemon glaze or cream cheese frosting.
  • As a gift: Package them up in a cute box or jar for a homemade gift for family or friends.

 

• As a snack: Enjoy one or two cookies with a glass of milk for a quick and satisfying snack.

Cooking Tips

• • Use fresh lemons: For the best flavor, use freshly grated lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The zest is where the most potent lemon flavor lies.
  • Chill the dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the cookies hold their shape and results in a thicker, chewier cookie.

 

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Overbaking can cause them to become dry and crumbly.
• Roll in sugar: Coating the dough balls in sugar before baking gives the cookies a crunchy, sweet exterior.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Lemon: High in vitamin C, lemon can help boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.

 

• Butter: Adds a rich flavor and texture to the cookies. You can substitute with margarine or a plant-based butter if needed.
• Egg: A great source of protein and essential nutrients.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.

 

• Can be made dairy-free: Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or a plant-based butter alternative.

Nutritional Facts (per cookie)

• • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Fat: 6 g
    • • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g

     

  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
    • Sugars: 9 g

 

• • Protein: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg

 

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls before baking, then bake them directly from the freezer when ready. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Easy to make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal preparation, making it perfect for beginner bakers.

 

• Fresh and fragrant: The citrusy lemon zest gives the cookies a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the sugar.
• Soft and chewy: The cookies have the perfect balance of soft, chewy centers with a crisp, sugary exterior.

Conclusion

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a holiday dessert platter. Their soft texture and tangy lemon flavor make them stand out from your typical sugar cookie. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these delightful cookies fresh from the oven in no time. Don’t forget to try them with a cup of tea or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence!