These Soft lemon Cookies are a delightful burst of citrus flavor with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfectly sweet with a tangy lemon twist, they’re the ultimate treat for lemon lovers. Whether you’re baking for a party, a gift, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Burst of Lemon Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest make these cookies wonderfully zesty.
- Soft and Tender: The perfect texture for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and pantry staples mean you can whip them up anytime.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the lemon juice, grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
- Drop tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies as soon as the edges are golden to keep the centers soft.
Variations
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cookies for extra zing.
- Add White Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.
- Make Them Extra Chewy: Substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for an ultra-soft texture.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cookies (before dusting with powdered sugar) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and dust before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the light and fluffy texture, makes these cookies irresistible. Lemon juice and zest provide freshness, while butter ensures a soft, rich base.
Conclusion
These Soft Lemon Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves the bright, refreshing taste of lemon. Perfectly sweet, tangy, and irresistibly soft, they’re a versatile treat for any occasion. Whip up a batch today, and enjoy the sunshine in every bite!