If you are looking for a delightful treat that brings a perfect balance of fun, flavor, and festive charm, this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe is a must-try! These tender, slightly tangy cookies shaped into cute little knots are not only visually appealing but also bursting with a subtle lemony freshness that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a spring gathering, this recipe combines simplicity with that special homemade touch that turns ordinary moments into memorable ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering some simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to make this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe shine. Each ingredient plays its role, from providing structure and flavor to that irresistible texture and delightful zest.
- 300g plain flour: The base of your cookie dough for perfect softness and structure.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures your knots get a light, tender crumb.
- 1/4 tsp salt: A pinch to balance sweetness and amplify flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Helps bind everything together and adds richness.
- 100g sugar: Adds natural sweetness and aids in browning.
- 80g unsalted butter (melted): Contributes moisture and buttery goodness.
- 1 tsp lemon zest (or 1 tsp vanilla extract): Gives your cookies a fresh citrus zing or gentle warmth.
- 60ml milk: Makes the dough soft and easy to work with.
- 150g icing sugar: Key ingredient for the luscious glaze coating.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or milk for a milder flavor): Adds tang and brightness to the glaze.
- Colourful sprinkles (optional for decoration): Brings a festive pop of color and fun!
How to Make Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by whisking together plain flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl—these dry ingredients form the foundation for the perfect cookie. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which is the secret to a tender texture. Slowly stir in melted butter, lemon zest, and milk for moistness and flavor. Then, gently fold in the dry ingredients until you get a soft dough ready to be shaped.
Step 2: Shape the Knots
Preheat your oven to 180°C (or 160°C if using a fan oven). Take small portions of your dough, rolling each into about 15cm long ropes. The fun begins here—tie each rope into a loose knot, a simple shape that adds personality to your cookies. Place each knot on a lined baking sheet, giving them ample space to bake evenly without sticking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake your delightful knots for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re lightly golden. This baking time ensures the edges set beautifully while the inside remains irresistibly soft. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely—cooling is essential before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
Step 4: Glaze and Decorate
Create a smooth glaze by mixing icing sugar with lemon juice—this zesty icing is what makes the Easter Knot Cookies Recipe so special. Dip each cooled cookie carefully into the glaze and let the excess drip off. While still wet, sprinkle colourful decorations over the top for that cheerful springtime vibe that brightens every bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the glaze set completely before serving your cookies. These charming Easter Knot Cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for festive breakfasts, afternoon treats, or sharing at a lively spring get-together.
How to Serve Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the festive feel, consider adding shredded coconut, edible flower petals, or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the glaze. These touches not only add texture but also elevate the visual appeal, making your cookies irresistible at first sight.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with fresh berries, a creamy lemon yogurt dip, or a delicate slice of pound cake. Each option complements the cookie’s subtle tartness and tender crumb, creating a well-rounded, memorable dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Easter Knot Cookies on pastel-colored serving trays or nestle them amid a bed of edible flowers for a whimsical display. You could also tie a few knots together with a spring ribbon for charming gift packaging or party favors that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Easter Knot Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days, perfect for munching on while reminiscing about the fun baking session.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies in advance, freeze the plain baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw a few hours before glazing and decorating.
Reheating
To refresh your cookies before serving, warm them gently in a low oven (around 150°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the glaze too much and make the cookies lose their tender texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute lemon zest for vanilla extract in the Easter Knot Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Using vanilla extract instead of lemon zest will provide a warm, comforting flavor. The cookies will still be delicious but with a different, more classic flavor profile.
What if I don’t have icing sugar for the glaze?
You can try finely powdered regular sugar, but icing sugar is recommended because it dissolves smoothly for that perfect glossy finish. Alternatively, honey or a simple syrup glaze could add sweetness but will change the texture.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the plain flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum or an equivalent binder for structure.
How do I prevent the knots from untying during baking?
Make sure to tie the knots snugly but not too tight. Slightly looser knots can come undone. Additionally, placing them on a lined baking sheet without moving them until cooled helps them hold their shape perfectly.
Are there variations to the glaze flavor?
Definitely! You can experiment by adding a drop of almond extract, substituting lemon juice with orange or lime juice, or even mixing in a little melted white chocolate for a richer glaze. The Easter Knot Cookies Recipe is wonderfully versatile.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about baking and sharing these Easter Knot Cookies Recipe with loved ones. The fun shapes, the bright lemony glaze, and the tender texture come together beautifully to create a cookie that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a treasured part of your festive baking traditions.
Print
Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful Easter Knot Cookies are a charming homemade treat perfect for celebrating the holiday. Soft, lightly sweetened knots of buttery dough are baked to a light golden brown, then dipped in a tangy lemon glaze and decorated with colorful sprinkles. These cookies are simple to make and ideal for sharing with family and friends over tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 300g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 100g sugar
- 80g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp lemon zest (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 60ml milk
Glaze and Decoration
- 150g icing sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or milk for a milder flavor)
- Colourful sprinkles (optional for decoration)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the melted butter, lemon zest (or vanilla extract), and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the knots: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into approximately 15cm long ropes. Tie each rope into a loose knot and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they have enough space to expand slightly during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Glaze and decorate: While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by mixing the icing sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie into the lemon glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle with colourful sprinkles if desired for a festive touch.
- Serve: Allow the glaze to set completely before serving. These Easter Knot Cookies are perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Notes
- You can substitute lemon zest and juice with vanilla extract and milk respectively for a milder flavor in the glaze.
- Make sure cookies are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Knot shapes can vary; try different sizes for fun variations.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
- Using a fan oven (160°C) will bake the cookies slightly more evenly and gently.
