Lemon sugar cookies are a tasty treat that brighten up your day! With a zesty lemon flavor and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies add a pop of sunshine to any snack time.
Let’s be real, who can resist a cookie that’s both sweet and tangy? I love to pair them with a cup of tea—it’s the perfect combo for a cozy afternoon! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your cookie dough. If you need a gluten-free option, you can try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, which usually works well in cookie recipes.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of your cookies. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe by half. For a dairy-free option, use margarine or coconut oil.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh citrus is key for flavor! If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh zest delivers a brighter taste. Lime can be used as a fun twist for a different yet similar flavor profile.
Sugars: Granulated sugar gives sweetness, while powdered sugar is used for coating. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option, but the taste will change slightly.
How Do I Cream Butter and Sugar Properly?
Creaming butter and sugar correctly is crucial for light and airy cookies. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature, about 65°F (18°C).
- Using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while mixing. Keep beating until the mixture is fluffy and pale, which can take about 3-5 minutes. This step adds air, helping your cookies rise nicely!
Be patient; this process can make a big difference in your cookie texture!
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Rolling:
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and 10-12 minutes for baking. Plus, a few more minutes for cooling. In total, you can have delicious lemon sugar cookies ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together well, and then set the bowl aside for later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together using a mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key to your cookies being soft and delicious!
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until everything is well mixed together. You should have a smooth mixture now.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Your cookie dough will be ready in no time!
6. Shape the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls with your hands. Then, roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat them nicely. This adds a lovely sweetness and a pretty finish!
7. Bake the Cookies:
Place the sugar-coated balls on your lined baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers are set. They might look a bit underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool!
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, you can enjoy your delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies—perfect with tea or just on their own!
## FAQ for Lemon Sugar Cookies
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for unsalted butter in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor may slightly differ, and the texture might not be as rich and creamy. Make sure to use a stick margarine for the best results, and check if it’s suitable for baking.
How Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Start by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour replacement, and be sure to check the package instructions for any special adjustments.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
Can I Add More Lemon Flavor?
Absolutely! If you want a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or zest. Just be cautious, as too much additional liquid might affect the dough consistency—if you add more juice, consider reducing a bit of the other liquid ingredients to balance it out.
