Description
These lemon cookies are soft, zesty, and irresistibly delicious, featuring a perfect balance of tangy lemon flavor and sweet sugar coating. They are easy to make with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and 3/4 cup of the granulated sugar, stirring well to evenly distribute.
- Cut in Butter: Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the softened butter into the flour and sugar mixture until it resembles a crumbly texture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Knead Dough: Using your hands, knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, soft dough ball ready for shaping.
- Prepare Sugar Coating: Place the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar into a shallow bowl for dipping the cookies later.
- Shape Cookies: Break off two-tablespoon sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball with the bottom of a round glass to form cookie shapes.
- Coat with Sugar: Dip one side of each flattened cookie into the sugar, shake off excess, and place the non-coated side down onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them a few inches apart.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a golden brown color.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright and fresh lemon flavor.
- Flattening the cookies ensures even baking and a nice thin texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness for up to one week.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the dough.
