Name: Soft Lemon Sugar Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Bind ingredients); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional); 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (Or fresh lemon juice/zest); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher preferred); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Use fresh for best results); Juice of 1 Lemon (Adjust to taste); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust for desired sweetness)

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As I whisked together the ingredients for my latest baking adventure, the scent of fresh lemons filled my kitchen—an instant mood lifter! These Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to combine the sunny brightness of citrus with sweet, sugary goodness. Perfectly soft in the center and slightly crisp at the edges, they offer a lovely contrast that keeps you reaching for just one more. The delightful dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, making them an ideal choice for everything from casual afternoons to festive gatherings. Plus, with a quick prep time, you’ll have these zesty treats ready in a flash. Are you ready to brighten your day with these delicious cookies? Let’s dive in!

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Why are Lemon Sugar Cookies so irresistible?

Sunshine in Every Bite: Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these cookies will have you savoring the bright taste of summer all year long.
Soft and Chewy Texture: Their unique consistency ensures each cookie is tender in the center while slightly crisp around the edges.
Elegant Presentation: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sophisticated touch, making them perfect for any occasion.
Quick & Easy Preparation: Mix, scoop, and bake—these cookies come together seamlessly, allowing you more time to enjoy!
Versatile Treat: Serve alongside tea or lemonade for a refreshing twist, or enjoy them solo for a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Want more fun dessert ideas? Try my Raspberry Lemon Heaven for a delightful variation!

Lemon Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• The perfect balance of sweetness and tartness!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – The sweetness base that contributes to texture; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Large Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients and helps with structure; use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and flavor depth; optional, but enhances the overall taste.
Lemon Extract – Intensifies lemon flavor; fresh lemon juice/zest can be used for a more natural taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; Kosher salt works well; avoid using fine table salt.
Lemon Zest – Adds vibrant lemon aroma and flavor; use fresh zest for best results.
Juice of 1 Lemon – Contributes moisture and tanginess; adjust to personal taste if desired.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a beautiful finish; adjust quantity based on desired sweetness for your Lemon Sugar Cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it reaches the perfect temperature to bake your Lemon Sugar Cookies evenly. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for creating a soft and chewy texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, beat in 2 large eggs, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract. Continue mixing until the eggs are fully incorporated and the batter appears smooth, about 1-2 minutes. The combination of these ingredients will enhance the flavor of your Lemon Sugar Cookies beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Ensure there are no lumps and the ingredients are evenly combined. This will help create a well-structured dough that holds its shape during baking, giving your cookies the perfect texture.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; the dough should remain slightly soft and sticky but uniform in texture. This will keep your Lemon Sugar Cookies nice and tender, making them melt in your mouth.

Step 6: Fold in Zest and Juice
Now it’s time to brighten your dough! Gently fold in the zest of 1 lemon and the juice of the same lemon until they’re evenly distributed throughout the cookie mixture. The zest will add vibrant flavor, while the juice enhances the cookies’ moisture and tang, perfectly balancing the sweetness.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop rounded balls of dough and place them on your lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. You should aim for about 2 inches in diameter for each scoop. This spacing allows the cookies to spread a little while baking, ensuring they retain their characteristic soft and chewy texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake your Lemon Sugar Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking; you want soft, chewy centers that will melt in your mouth once cooled.

Step 9: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This helps them set before transferring them to wire racks. After cooling slightly, roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Step 10: Cool Completely
Lastly, transfer the Lemon Sugar Cookies to wire racks to cool completely. This final cooling stage will give your cookies a perfect texture and allow the flavor to develop fully. Once cooled, these delightful treats can be stored in an airtight container or enjoyed right away with friends or family!

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What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Brighten your table with delightful pairings that complement the zesty goodness of lemon cookies.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and melon brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie, enhancing your dessert experience.
Herbal Tea: A light chamomile or mint tea offers calming flavors that balance the citrus zing, creating the perfect cozy atmosphere.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds a luscious creaminess, making each bite of your Lemon Sugar Cookies even more indulgent.
Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy drink mirrors the lemon flavor while adding a bubbly touch, making it ideal for summer celebrations or brunch gatherings.
Cheesecake Bites: The rich, creamy texture of cheesecake provides a delightful contrast to the chewy lemon cookies, making for a decadent dessert spread.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate enhances the lemony tang, creating a playful flavor pairing that guests will adore.
Poppy Seed Muffins: Their subtle sweetness and texture echo the flavors of the cookies, making them a lovely addition to a brunch table.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy, coconutty treats add a tropical twist that beautifully complements the citrus notes of Lemon Sugar Cookies.
Chilled Prosecco: For a festive touch, serve with chilled prosecco to elevate any occasion, bringing a sparkle that pairs perfectly with the cookies’ sweetness.

Tips for the Best Lemon Sugar Cookies

Softened Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is just softened, not melted. This creates the desired texture for your Lemon Sugar Cookies.
Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour; this can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy centers you want.
Cool Properly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them set without breaking apart.
Zest for Flavor: For a more vibrant taste, don’t skip the lemon zest! It infuses additional freshness into your Lemon Sugar Cookies, enhancing their citrus flavor.
Proper Baking: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Aim for lightly golden edges and slightly puffy centers for the perfect texture every time.

Lemon Sugar Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Lemon Sugar Cookies with these delightful twists and alternatives, adding your personal touch!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a completely dairy-free version. You’ll still enjoy that soft and chewy texture without the dairy!
Lower Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar to create a lower glycemic index cookie—perfect for those watching their sugar intake. The flavor remains delightful!
Vegan Option: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs; simply combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This keeps your cookies plant-based while still deliciously chewy.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten. They can still be just as soft and delectable with the right blend!
Lemon-Lime Fusion: Substitute lemon extract with lime extract for a tangy twist that’s refreshing and zesty. This variation is perfect for those who love lime!
Extra Crunch: Add poppy seeds to the dough for added texture and a delightful lemon-poppy seed cookie experience. They can make your cookies feel extra special at gatherings!
White Chocolate Delight: Stir in white chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter twist on these cookies. The sweetness of the chocolate perfectly complements the tartness of the lemon.
Robust Zest: Enhance the lemon flavor by increasing the zest or adding lemon peel for an even brighter taste sensation. It makes every bite burst with lemon goodness.

For some more delightful desserts, consider trying my Raspberry Lemon Heaven or my lovely Lemon Pistachio Cookies for a change of pace! Customize your baking adventure and enjoy the process!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, scoop onto a lined baking sheet, and bake as directed. For even easier handling, you can also scoop out the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for delicious, fresh cookies with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds. Dust with more powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch!

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Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! You want to look for lemons that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The skin should be bright yellow and relatively smooth, without any dark spots or blemishes. If you can, choose organic lemons, as they usually have a more intense flavor and fragrance.

How should I store left-over Lemon Sugar Cookies?
The more the merrier! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Lemon Sugar Cookies? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze your Lemon Sugar Cookies, let them cool completely after baking. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. When ready to enjoy, just thaw or warm them directly from the freezer.

What should I do if my cookies come out too dry?
Very! If your cookies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or mixing the dough too much. To fix this in the future, keep an eye on them while baking—aim for slightly underbaked centers as they will continue to firm up as they cool. You can also add a touch more lemon juice or zest to enhance moisture in the dough.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! Make sure to inform your guests of any common allergens in this recipe. The main ingredients include eggs and dairy—if anyone has allergies, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute for eggs and margarine for butter. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs.