Lemon Cookie Recipe

Bright, zesty, and completely irresistible, this Lemon Cookie Recipe is the cookie I dream about on gray days and crave all summer long. These soft, chewy lemon sugar cookies have stolen the hearts of over a million fans for good reason: every bite bursts with fresh citrus flavor, pillowy texture, and just the right dose of sweetness. Whether you’re searching for a show-stopper bake sale treat or just something cheerful for a quick afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe brings sunshine to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Lemon Cookie Recipe is how it uses simple pantry staples, yet each ingredient plays a major role in creating the perfect cookie. From the luscious butter that guarantees a tender crumb, to the fresh lemon zest that gives these cookies their unforgettable flavor, nothing here is wasted – it’s all about balance and depth!

• Unsalted butter (1 cup): Room temperature butter is key for a soft, creamy dough and that signature chew.
• Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups + ¼ cup for rolling): Adds sweetness and also helps create those gorgeous crackly tops when you roll the dough before baking.
• Lemon zest (3 Tbsp): This is where the magic happens! Freshly zested lemon brings unbeatable brightness and aroma.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp): For tangy flavor that intensifies that citrus punch.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder and gives the cookies structure while keeping them soft.
• All-purpose flour (3 cups): The base that holds all the flavors together and gives the cookies their soft, tender bite.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Just the right amount for a light lift and perfect spread.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweet and tart, and helps boost all the flavors.

How to Make Lemon Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest

Grab a large mixing bowl and your trusty electric mixer. Beat together the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and fragrant lemon zest for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep going until everything’s light, fluffy, and the citrus aroma fills the air – this step infuses your cookies with that true lemony essence!

Step 2: Add Lemon Juice and Egg

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and crack in the egg. Beat the mixture again until it’s fully combined. You’ll notice the mixture looks creamy and luscious – just what you want for cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gently stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Switch to a spatula or wooden spoon and fold until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough. Don’t overmix! The dough should come together nicely, ready for a quick chill.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes. This time in the fridge allows the dough to develop even more flavor and ensures your cookies bake up beautifully thick, not thin or spread-out.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Once your dough is nice and chilled, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Pour ¼ cup granulated sugar into a small bowl – this extra step of rolling the dough balls in sugar is what gives every cookie that sparkly, crackled top.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form even balls of dough. Roll each in the sugar, then place them about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with silicone or parchment paper. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look a little soft (they’ll finish setting as they cool).

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. This quick rest gives the cookies the perfect chewy texture, and by the time they’re cool enough to handle, your kitchen will smell incredible!

How to Serve Lemon Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, dust the cooled cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a tiny pinch of extra lemon zest. You can also drizzle them lightly with a simple lemon glaze (mix together a bit of powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice) to make them extra bright and bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Cookie Recipe with a fresh cup of tea, tall glass of cold milk, or even alongside a bowl of vanilla ice cream. The sweet and tangy cookies balance beautifully with mild flavors, making them the perfect sidekick to a fruit salad or creamy dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies in a sunny yellow box lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful gift. Stack them in clear jars with a pretty ribbon for party favors, or layer them on a tiered cake stand for a citrusy centerpiece at your next gathering. However you present them, these cookies bring instant cheer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cookies keep like a dream! Store any leftover Lemon Cookie Recipe cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They stay soft and flavorful, making them ideal for lunchboxes or sneaky midnight snacks.

Freezing

This dough is freezer-friendly, so you can always have some on hand for an unexpected craving. Scoop the dough into balls, roll in sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to three months!

Reheating

To enjoy cookies as if they’re fresh from the oven, simply pop one or two in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This little burst of warmth revives their soft, chewy texture and brings the citrus aroma right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, fresh lemon juice really gives the cookies that vibrant, zesty flavor. For the absolute best Lemon Cookie Recipe results, stick with freshly squeezed if possible.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, and it intensifies the lemony flavor. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in texture and taste!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to three days ahead and store it tightly covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just roll in the sugar and pop in the oven.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store the cookies in an airtight container, and if you like, pop a slice of bread in with them—the cookies will absorb moisture, staying extra soft and chewy for days.

Can I add a glaze to these lemon cookies?

Definitely! A quick lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice drizzled on top makes the Lemon Cookie Recipe even more delicious and gives a lovely glossy finish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that bursts with citrus flavor and is stunningly easy to make, give this Lemon Cookie Recipe a try. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are pure sunshine in every bite and guaranteed to brighten any day!

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