Description
These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat bursting with fresh lemon flavor. With a tender, chewy texture and a subtle tang, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while enjoying a zesty twist. Rolled in sugar before baking, they develop a delicate, crackly crust that complements their moist interior.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- 2 tsp lemon extract (or 1 tsp lemon extract and 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
For Rolling & Garnishing
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with 1 ½ cups granulated sugar and lemon zest until light and fluffy. Beat in the large egg and egg yolk, then add the lemon extract (and vanilla extract, if using) along with lemon juice, mixing until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix to maintain a tender texture in the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to help the flavors meld and to prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or non-stick mats.
- Form and Roll Cookies: Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized portions and roll each ball in the 1/4 cup granulated sugar until fully coated. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. The sugar coating should be crackly and glossy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy the soft and chewy lemon goodness!
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice but reduce other liquids slightly to maintain dough consistency.
- If you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, use 2 tsp vanilla extract instead of lemon extract.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Keywords: Lemon cookies, soft lemon cookies, chewy lemon cookies, lemon dessert, citrus cookies, homemade lemon cookies