Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies – Easy, Zesty & Irresistible Recipe!

Lemon sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tangy citrus flavor. These soft, chewy cookies are easy to make and require simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just a sweet treat, these lemon sugar cookies are sure to brighten your day with their refreshing flavor and irresistible texture.

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Recipe Preparation Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dough ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Baking Sheets: For baking the cookies.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: To prevent sticking.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies.
• Zester or Grater: For zesting the lemon.

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Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

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How to Make Easy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
2. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Dough

1. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough into 1.5-inch balls.
2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. The centers should still be soft.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

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Variations

• Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for extra texture.
• Glazed with Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles to the glaze for a festive touch.
• Lemon Coconut Cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

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Cooking Notes

• Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet, so remove them when the edges are just golden.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking for easier handling.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

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Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same bright flavor.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for even mixing.

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Tips for the Best Lemon Sugar Cookies

1. Zest the lemon before juicing it for easier handling.
2. Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a sparkly finish.
3. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

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Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Nutritional Information

(Serving size: 1 cookie)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 35mg

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FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, portion the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

3. How do I store the cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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Conclusion

These lemon sugar cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of classic sugar cookies with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon. Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrus, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade lemon sugar cookies!

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Let me know if you need more recipes or adjustments! 😊

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