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Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe

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Zesty lemon sugar cookies with soft edges and a delicate chew in the center. These bright, buttery cookies are coated in sugar for the perfect sparkle and bake in under 15 minutes.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Total Time: approximately 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
  • Unsalted butter, softened
  • Large eggs
  • Fresh lemon zest
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.
  6. Scoop dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in additional granulated sugar.
  7. Place balls about 2 inches apart on prepared sheets and gently flatten slightly.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges begin to turn golden while centers remain soft.
  9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Lemon glaze: Drizzle or dip cooled cookies in a thin mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
  • Zest boost: Stir extra lemon zest into the rolling sugar for a citrusy sparkle.
  • Herb-infused: Mix in a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme with the sugar for a savory twist.
  • Gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check texture, as dough may spread more.
  • Sugar cookie style: Roll dough thinner, cut with cookie cutters, bake 8–10 minutes, and decorate with royal icing or sprinkles.
  • For storage, keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper.

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