Lemon Sugar Cookies

Brighten your day with these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies, a perfect blend of sweet and tart. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these cookies are soft, chewy, and coated in powdered sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and lemon extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until well combined.
5. Fold in the lemon zest and juice, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. The preparation time is around 15 minutes, while the cooking time is 10-12 minutes, making the total time about 25-27 minutes.

Variations

• Add-Ins: Consider adding white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
• Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled cookies for an additional lemony kick.
• Different Extracts: Substitute almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Cookie Size: Adjust the size of the cookie balls for larger or smaller cookies, but adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?
   Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers remain soft.
3. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
   Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
4. What is the best way to zest a lemon?
   Use a microplane or a zester for the finest zest, ensuring you avoid the bitter white pith.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
6. Why did my cookies spread too much?
   Ensure your butter is not too warm when mixing, and check the accuracy of your flour measurement.
7. Can I add food coloring?
   Yes, you can add a few drops of yellow food coloring for a more vibrant appearance.
8. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
   Yes, they freeze well, allowing you to enjoy them later.
9. How can I make these cookies softer?
   Try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk for a softer texture.
10. What other citrus can I use?
    You can substitute lemon with lime or orange for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of sugar with the refreshing zing of lemon. Perfect for any gathering or a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are simple to make and sure to impress. Whether enjoyed on their own or shared with friends, they bring a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Enjoy baking and savoring each bite!

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