These Soft & Zesty Lemon Cookies are bursting with fresh citrus flavor, featuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of sweetness. Made with real lemon juice and zest, these cookies are light, refreshing, and perfect for lemon lovers. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Servings: 16 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for coating, optional)
Directions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Preheat the oven: Set to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls. If using, coat each in powdered sugar for a crinkle effect.
- Bake: Place cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Cool & Serve: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with extra powdered sugar for a delicate, bakery-style finish.
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing summer dessert.
- Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (lemon juice + powdered sugar) for extra zest.
Cooking Tips
- For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract.
- Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
- For a crisper texture, bake for 1-2 minutes longer.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemon zest provides antioxidants and a natural citrus boost.
- Butter and eggs offer essential fats and protein.
- No artificial flavors – just real, fresh lemon!
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Can be made dairy-free by using vegan butter
- Not gluten-free (can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour)
Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for 1 week in the fridge.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2 minutes to baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright & Refreshing Flavor: Perfect balance of sweetness and citrus.
- Soft, Chewy Texture: Light and airy inside with a crisp edge.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for tea time, holidays, or as a sweet snack.
Conclusion
These Soft & Zesty Lemon Cookies bring a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. Whether you love a soft, chewy cookie or prefer a light dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try them for your next baking day, and enjoy the fresh, homemade taste of real lemon!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor and aroma.
2. Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling prevents spreading and enhances the flavor.
3. Can I substitute the butter?
Yes! Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I make them more lemony?
Add extra lemon zest or a few drops of lemon extract.
5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
6. Why do my cookies look too flat?
The dough might be too warm – chill it longer. Also, don’t overmix the batter.
7. Can I freeze baked cookies?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
8. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can skip the coating or blend granulated sugar into a fine powder.
9. Can I add poppy seeds?
Yes! 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds adds a nice texture.
10. How do I know when they’re done baking?
The edges should be set, but the center should still look slightly soft – they’ll firm up while cooling.