Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the refreshing burst of flavor that lemon brings to a cookie. These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon or need a quick dessert, these cookies are sure to brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- Additional sugar for rolling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If using, stir in the lemon extract.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until coated.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They should still be soft in the center.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick of lemon flavor, consider adding a bit more zest.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- These cookies freeze well; simply store in a freezer-safe container for later enjoyment.
Cooking Techniques
Baking is both an art and a science. Ensuring your butter is perfectly softened allows for the best creaming process, resulting in fluffy cookies. When mixing dry and wet ingredients, be careful not to over-mix, as it can lead to tougher cookies.
FAQ
- Can I use salted butter? Yes, just reduce the added salt slightly.
- Can I omit the lemon extract? Absolutely, but it adds an extra layer of lemony goodness.
- How can I make these cookies more chewy? Try slightly under-baking them and let them cool on the baking sheet.
Conclusion
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for sharing or savoring just for yourself, they bring a taste of sunshine to any dessert table. Happy baking!