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Plate of delicious lemon sugar cookies with icing and zest decoration

Irresistibly Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies

Delightful cookies that balance sweetness with a refreshing lemon tang, perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Baking Powder Essential for rising.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt Enhances the overall flavor.
Wet Ingredients
  • 0.75 cup Unsalted Butter, softened Creamier texture due to its fat content.
  • 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar For sweetness and structure.
  • 1 Large Egg, at room temperature Binds the ingredients.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Aromatic oil from the peel adds zestiness.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Tangy flavor that brightens the cookies.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Aromatic compound that enhances sweetness.
For Rolling
  • 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar for Rolling Gives a delightful crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until integrated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low until just combined.
  6. Scoop dough and roll into 1.5-inch balls, then roll in granulated sugar.
  7. Position dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
  2. Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Freeze cookie dough before or after baking for up to 3 months.