These lemon sugar cookies are soft, aromatic, and melt-in-your-mouth with a refreshing citrus flavor. The combination of butter, lemon juice, and zest gives the cookies a bright and fragrant taste, while the sugar coating adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat anytime!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 100g butter (softened)
- 100g powdered sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (10g)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- For rolling: 2-3 tbsp sugar and powdered sugar
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Sift the flour with the baking powder and gradually add it to the butter mixture. Mix until a smooth dough forms, then stir in the salt.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each). Roll each ball in a mixture of sugar and powdered sugar.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a light dessert.
- Pack them in a lunchbox for a sweet snack.
- Serve as a holiday treat or for special occasions.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies, as they can become dry. They should be soft with slightly golden edges.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add more lemon zest or juice.
- If you prefer a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lemon provides vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.
- Butter adds richness, while sugar provides a quick energy boost.
- These cookies can be a source of comfort and joy when eaten in moderation.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These lemon sugar cookies are simple to make and full of citrusy goodness. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, the sugar coating makes them irresistible!
Conclusion:
These lemon sugar cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Whether for a special occasion or a regular snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Their soft texture and sweet tangy taste make them perfect for any time of day!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lime juice and zest for lemon for a different citrus flavor. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. - What can I use instead of vanilla sugar?
You can use regular vanilla extract (about 1 tsp) instead of vanilla sugar. - Do I need to use an electric mixer?
You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for ease, but a whisk and spatula will also work fine. - Can I add other flavors to the cookies?
Yes, you can experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or almond extract. - How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should have golden edges but still be soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. - Can I make the cookies bigger?
Yes, you can make larger cookies, but increase the baking time by a few minutes. - Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, adding chocolate chips or chunks would be a delicious variation! - Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these cookies are vegetarian-friendly as they don’t contain any animal products besides eggs.