Introduction
There’s something truly special about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon that can lift your spirits and make your taste buds dance. These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the sweetness of sugar with the refreshing tang of lemon. Perfect for any occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to bring a little sunshine into your day!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 30-32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture; mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra lemony flavor, increase the lemon zest to 3 teaspoons.
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Cooking Techniques
Baking is a wonderful blend of science and art, and mastering the basics can take your cookies to the next level. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing, and always measure your flour properly to avoid dense cookies. The key to perfect cookies is to bake them just until the edges are golden; this keeps them soft in the middle!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of flour?
- What can I substitute if I don’t have lemon juice?
- How can I make these cookies vegan?
Conclusion
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat; they are a little burst of joy in every bite! With their delightful flavor and chewy texture, they’re bound to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. So gather your ingredients, share with friends, and enjoy the zesty goodness!