Lemon Cookies
Indulge in the refreshing taste of lemon cookies, perfect for brightening up your day. Their soft, chewy texture combined with a zesty lemon flavor makes them irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies are a delightful way to incorporate citrus into your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 95
– Total Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 14g
– Sugars: 6g
– Protein: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance the presentation.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
Serving and Pairings
These lemon cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside fruit or other cookies.
Storage and Reheating
Store lemon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just ensure they are well-wrapped. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cookies.
- Skipping the cooling time can cause cookies to crumble.
- Not allowing the butter to soften properly can lead to poor mixing.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with adding poppy seeds for added texture.
- For a sweeter taste, increase sugar slightly.
- Always check cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Using bottled lemon juice is possible, but fresh juice offers a brighter flavor and aroma that enhances the cookies.
How can I make these cookies more lemony?
To intensify the lemon flavor, add more lemon zest or a bit of lemon extract to the dough.
Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! You can drizzle a simple lemon glaze or sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can result from too much butter or not enough flour. Ensure you measure accurately.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set but slightly soft.
Conclusion
Lemon cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess. Easy to make and enjoyable at any time, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your household. Bake a batch today and share the joy of homemade lemon cookies with your loved ones!
Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance the presentation.
