Description
Delight in these zesty Lemon Cookies, perfectly soft with a refreshing citrus flavor. Bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice, these buttery cookies are rolled in sugar for a sweet, crunchy exterior. Ideal for sharing and baking at home, they deliver a bright twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp lemon zest
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
Instructions
- Mix Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and lemon zest together with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Lemon Juice and Egg: Incorporate the fresh lemon juice and the large egg into the mixture, beating again until well combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing carefully by hand with a spatula until a cohesive dough forms.
- Chill Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up and enhance flavor.
- Prepare for Baking: Remove the dough from the fridge and preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Pour the 1/4 cup sugar into a small bowl for rolling the cookie dough balls.
- Shape and Roll Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to form even-sized balls of dough. Roll each ball in the sugar, then place them about 2 inches apart on a silicone-lined baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes or until the cookie edges develop a subtle golden hue, signaling they are perfectly baked.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 4 tablespoons.
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Refrigerating dough helps prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Using a silicone mat or parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
- The cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoyed within 3-4 days.
