Lemon Sugar Cookies

There’s something undeniably cheerful about the scent of freshly baked Lemon Sugar Cookies wafting through the home. These delightful cookies are not just a treat; they encapsulate the sunny zest of lemons, making them perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply treating yourself, this Lemon Sugar Cookies recipe will earn a special spot in your heart and your recipe book.

Why Lemon Sugar Cookies Are a Must-Try

Lemon Sugar Cookies stand out in the vast cookie universe due to their bright, refreshing flavor and soft, chewy texture. They are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round but feel particularly perfect in the spring and summer months. I remember the first time I shared these cookies at a family picnic; the smiles and happy chatter were contagious. It was a reminder of how food can bring us together. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in any baker’s repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (at room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (freshly grated for that vibrant flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Feel free to swap out the lemon for another citrus if you’re in the mood for something different, like an orange twist.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, this makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now; we want to keep the dry ingredients separate. Trust me, this helps with the perfect texture.

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Take a moment to smell that buttery goodness.

Step 4:

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined. The lemon zest will bring a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, the dough should be soft and ready for some rolling.

Step 6:

Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll these balls in the extra granulated sugar to create that lovely, sweet crust. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7:

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They might look a bit underdone; that’s okay. They’ll set as they cool. Let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information

Each Lemon Sugar Cookie contains approximately 120 calories, with 6 grams of fat, 17 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. When baking, remember these cookies are a treat, so enjoy them responsibly.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to make these cookies a bit healthier? You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients. You might also consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to cut down on refined sugars. Each small change can keep the flavor while making these cookies even better for you.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but if you want to elevate your Lemon Sugar Cookies, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Imagine the combination of cold ice cream and zesty cookies, it’s a match made in heaven. They also make fantastic gifts, especially when packaged beautifully, so consider sharing them with friends and family.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is baking the cookies too long. Remember, they will continue to cook on the baking sheet for a few minutes after removing them from the oven; it’s better to underbake than overbake. Another tip: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve that perfect, chewy texture.

Storing Tips

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.
• You can also freeze the dough itself; simply shape the cookie balls and freeze them. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon zest?
  A1: Yes, you can. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract for a strong flavor. However, fresh zest adds an earthy brightness that I always recommend.
• Q2: What’s the best way to ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?
  A2: Avoid overbaking them. Pull them out when they are just set around the edges, and they’ll stay soft.
• Q3: Can I add a glaze to these cookies?
  A3: Absolutely; A simple powdered sugar glaze mixed with a bit of lemon juice would be an excellent topping. Just drizzle it over cooled cookies for an extra zing.

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your kitchen. Don’t forget to check out my Honey Cookies Recipe and if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, take a look at my Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Happy baking, my friends!

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