These Lemon Sugar Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a delightful citrusy flavor from fresh lemon zest and juice. They have a soft, chewy texture with a slightly crispy edge, making them an irresistible treat for lemon lovers. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional leavening to ensure the cookies have the perfect texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps to create a tender cookie.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a slightly crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle, nutty flavor that pairs well with the lemon.
- Zest of 2 lemons: Provides a bright, fresh lemon flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a tangy citrus flavor to complement the zest.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Gives the cookies a sweet, slightly crunchy coating.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
- Add the Egg and Extracts:
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is well combined, and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but firm enough to roll into balls.
- Roll the Dough:
- Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar into a small bowl.
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball between your hands.
- Roll the dough ball in the sugar until it’s fully coated.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- The centers should still look slightly soft and underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, enjoy these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or on their own. The bright lemon flavor makes them a refreshing treat for any time of the day.
Tips and Variations
- Zest and Juice Variations: For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest or juice. If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, reduce the amount slightly.
- Almond Extract: If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can omit it or replace it with more vanilla extract.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra burst of lemony goodness, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a bright and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon zest, juice, and a hint of almond extract creates a cookie that’s both sweet and tangy, with a soft, chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the taste of lemon. Enjoy baking and savoring these little bites of sunshine
