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Baking has a way of bringing people together, and these Lemon Sugar Cookies are no exception. With their bright, citrusy flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to delight.
I first made these cookies for a family gathering, and they disappeared within minutes. The zesty lemon flavor was a hit with everyone, and the soft, tender texture made them irresistible.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
- Eggs: Provide structure and moisture, helping the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ tender texture.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: The star ingredients that infuse the cookies with their bright, citrusy flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cookies moist and soft without overpowering the lemon flavor.
- Baking Powder: Gives the cookies a slight lift, ensuring they’re light and airy.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough, providing structure.
- Cornstarch: Adds a delicate crumb and helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
Crafting Your Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, vegetable oil, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The lemon zest is key here—it packs a punch of citrus flavor that shines through in every bite.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps and helps create a uniform texture in the cookies.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential—it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the dough is chilled, cut it into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Add the Finishing Touch
Once the cookies have cooled slightly, dip each one in milk and sprinkle with sugar. This step adds a subtle sweetness and a delightful crunch to every bite.
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I love using fresh lemons from my garden for this recipe. The aroma of the zest alone is enough to brighten my day, and the cookies always bring back fond memories of baking with my grandmother.
Serving Ideas
Fresh from the Oven
Enjoy these cookies warm, straight from the oven, for a comforting treat.
With Tea or Coffee
Pair them with your favorite hot beverage for a delightful afternoon snack.
At Parties or Gatherings
Add these cookies to a dessert platter or package them in a decorative box as a thoughtful homemade gift.
With Ice Cream
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Creative Variations
Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Add fresh or dried blueberries to the dough for a burst of fruity flavor.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Mix in a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a subtle crunch and visual appeal.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Iced Cookies
Drizzle the baked cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Herbal Twist
Incorporate a hint of fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a sophisticated flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
Freezing the Dough
Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziplock bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and baked straight from the freezer.
Storing Baked Cookies
Keep the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating
For a warm, fresh-from-the-oven experience, microwave the cookies for a few seconds before serving.
Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to bring a little sunshine into your day. Their bright, zesty flavor and tender texture make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a special event or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some lemons, and let the baking begin!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
- Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
- → How long do these cookies stay fresh?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- → Can I freeze the cookie dough?
- Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.
- → Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
- Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- → Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
- Yes, try adding orange zest or a pinch of vanilla extract for variety.