If you love soft, chewy cookies with a bright citrus twist, this Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These cookies combine the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday gathering, or just craving something sweet, these lemon sugar cookies deliver with every bite. The secret is in the fresh lemon zest and juice, which provide a burst of real citrus flavor.

With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these cookies are easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress anyone. They have a golden, slightly crisp edge with a soft, chewy center that keeps you coming back for more. So, let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special and how you can make them perfectly every time.

What Makes This Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe Special?

Bursting with Fresh Lemon Flavor: Real lemon juice and zest provide a natural, zesty taste.
Soft and Chewy Texture: A perfect balance of crispy edges and a tender center.
Easy to Make: No chilling required; these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, parties, or an everyday sweet treat.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with no need for fancy equipment.

Ingredient Notes

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure. For a softer texture, try substituting half with cake flour.
Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and richness. Use room temperature butter for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to a slightly crisp edge.
Lemon Zest & Juice: Fresh lemon zest enhances flavor while lemon juice adds tartness.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the citrus with warm sweetness.
Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Form the Cookies: Scoop dough (about 1.5 tbsp each) and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for a crisp outer texture.
Bake: Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Options

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week for a slightly firmer texture.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to refresh softness.

Variations and Substitutions

Glazed Lemon Cookies: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add 1 tbsp of poppy seeds for a slight crunch.
Vegan Version: Substitute butter with vegan butter and egg with flax egg.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Orange Sugar Cookies: Swap lemon zest and juice with orange for a sweeter citrus twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
Why are my cookies flat?
- Over-creaming butter and sugar can cause flat cookies. Mix until just combined.
How do I know when they’re done?
- Edges should be lightly golden, and the center will look slightly underbaked.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I keep them soft?
- Store with a slice of bread or apple to maintain moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! Just ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to handle the dough.

Conclusion for Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover. The balance of tart lemon and sweet sugar creates a perfect harmony that keeps everyone reaching for another. Whether you’re baking for a party, a gift, or just a cozy afternoon snack, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and share your delicious results with friends and family!

Easy Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe – Soft & Zesty Treats

Author: Sofia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Description

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. With a light, buttery texture and a zingy lemon twist, they are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat with sugar, and place on baking sheet 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire racks

Notes

For extra lemony flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker, chewier cookies.

Nutrition

Calories: 120
Sugar: 11g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 2g