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Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies

Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor. These cookies combine the sweetness of sugar cookies with the tangy zest of fresh lemons, creating a delightful treat perfect for spring gatherings, holiday platters, or anytime you crave a citrusy dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

For the Lemon Sugar Coating:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  • Prepare the Dough:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Prepare the Lemon Sugar Coating:
    • In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest for the coating. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers to release the oils for maximum flavor.
  • Shape the Cookies:
    • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in the lemon sugar coating and place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake the Cookies:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
    • Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Serve:
    • Enjoy these cookies on their own or with a cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing treat.

Notes

  • For an extra lemony kick, drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) over the cooled cookies.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • You can substitute lime or orange zest for a different citrus twist.

Keywords: Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies, lemon cookies, soft lemon cookies, citrus sugar cookies, lemon dessert, spring cookies, easy cookie recipe, tangy lemon treats, chewy sugar cookies, lemon zest baking