If you’re looking for a dessert that practically radiates sunshine, these Lemon Sugar Cookies should be the first thing you bake. This bright and zesty treat delights with a delicate, crackly sugar top and an irresistibly soft center, all bursting with real lemon flavor. Every bite is a sweet-tart tickle for your taste buds, making these cookies a true crowd-pleaser for both citrus lovers and classic cookie fans. Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon tea or need a pick-me-up after a long day, these Lemon Sugar Cookies are your new go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Lemon Sugar Cookies comes from the harmony of simple ingredients, each playing a special role in crafting the perfect cookie. Take a peek at what you’ll need below, and see how each item brings its own magic to the recipe.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies structure and a soft crumb that soaks up all the lemony goodness.
- Baking soda: Offers just the right amount of lift to make each cookie airy without being cakey.
- Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the bright lemon notes.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds rich flavor and guarantees a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and creates that signature crackly, sugared top when rolled before baking.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and helps the cookies stay moist.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth alongside the zesty lemon notes.
- Fresh lemon juice: The star of the show, lending an unmistakable tart, citrus punch.
- Lemon zest: Packs an aromatic, intensely lemony flavor you just can’t get from juice alone.
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling: Rolls each cookie in a frosty, twinkling coating that bakes up beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the temperature is steady for even baking. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This little step helps distribute the leavening and salt evenly, guaranteeing each Lemon Sugar Cookie is perfectly soft and flavored from edge to edge.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until they’re light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This not only adds air for a gentle rise but also makes for a smooth, luscious cookie dough base.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and vibrant lemon zest. At this stage, your kitchen will fill with the refreshing scent of citrus—truly the best part of making Lemon Sugar Cookies!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes
Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this keeps the cookies tender and ensures every bite is perfectly chewy.
Step 6: Shape and Sugar
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them gently between your palms into balls. Next, roll each ball in extra granulated sugar, coating them thoroughly for that signature sparkly finish.
Step 7: Flatten and Bake
Arrange dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the bottom of a glass to gently press each ball, flattening them slightly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until you see the edges just beginning to turn golden.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes—this keeps them soft and prevents breakage. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. The wait is worth it!
How to Serve Lemon Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
Make your Lemon Sugar Cookies extra eye-catching with a sprinkling of fresh lemon zest across the top just before serving. For that bakery-style touch, you can also drizzle a thin lemon glaze or dust a little powdered sugar over each cookie, elevating their visual and flavor appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your cookies with a big mug of herbal tea or a glass of icy cold milk for ultimate comfort. If you’re entertaining, arrange them alongside a summer berry salad or serve with homemade lemonade to double up on those citrusy vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, stack the cookies in a clear jar tied with a yellow ribbon, or arrange them on a vibrant platter with slices of fresh lemon. Try sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two Lemon Sugar Cookies for a brilliant homemade ice cream sandwich!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, stash your Lemon Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 5 days, making them perfect for bake sales, lunchboxes, or snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
These cookies freeze brilliantly! Arrange cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll taste just as vibrant for up to 3 months when you’re ready to thaw a few (or a bunch).
Reheating
If you love that just-baked taste, simply warm a Lemon Sugar Cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds. It’ll revive the fresh-baked flavor and soften the cookie, making the lemon scent pop once again.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate—when ready to bake, allow it to soften at room temperature for easier scooping.
What can I use instead of fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice gives the brightest flavor, you can substitute bottled lemon juice in a pinch. For even more zing, add a drop or two of lemon extract to boost the citrus punch.
Why are my cookies too flat or too thick?
Cookies that spread excessively might need a bit more flour, or your butter may have been too soft. If the cookies are thick and puffy, double-check that your baking soda is fresh and stick to the recommended ingredient amounts for best results.
How can I get an even more intense lemon flavor?
For extra lemony Lemon Sugar Cookies, add a little lemon extract to the dough, or double up on the zest. Taste as you go—it’s the best way to create your perfect cookie.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help the cookies hold together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you adore the lively pop of fresh citrus and the comfort of home-baked treats, these Lemon Sugar Cookies truly deliver both. Whip up a batch the next time you want to brighten someone’s day—or just indulge your own sweet tooth. Happy baking!
Print
Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrusy goodness, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Combine and Form Dough: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and Bake: Roll dough into balls, coat with sugar, place on baking sheets, flatten with a glass, and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
