If you are looking for a sweet treat that perfectly balances zesty brightness with comforting sweetness, you must try this Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe. These cookies are not only irresistibly soft and flavorful but also incredibly easy to make, combining fresh lemon zest and juice for that fresh citrus pop. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon tea, a festive gathering, or just a simple snack, this recipe delivers a burst of sunshine in every bite that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tangy lemon zest that brings brightness, to the cornstarch that guarantees a tender crumb, making these cookies uniquely soft and delightful.
- 2 eggs: They bind the ingredients and add richness to the dough.
- 60g (½ cup) sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a crisp edge.
- 50 ml (3 tbsp.) lemon juice: The fresh citrus that gives the cookies their signature tang.
- 30 ml (2 tbsp.) vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cookies soft.
- ½ lemon (zest): Intensifies lemon flavor with aromatic oils from the peel.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder: Ensures the cookies rise perfectly and have a light texture.
- 210g (1 â…” cup) all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookies.
- 50g (¼ cup) cornstarch: Creates that tender, melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 120 ml (½ cup) milk: Helps bind everything and contributes to a smooth dough.
- Sugar for sprinkling: Adds an extra sweet crunch on top after baking.
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients
Start by combining the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, vegetable oil, and fresh lemon juice in a bowl. Whisk these together thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy—this ensures that the flavors mix evenly and a light texture forms.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. This step ensures that the raising agent and powders are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent baking results.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir carefully to avoid overmixing, which could make the cookies tough—you’re aiming for a smooth, soft dough that just comes together.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Pop the dough into the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chilling step makes the dough easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in perfect shape and texture.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it reaches the right temperature by the time your dough is ready to bake. A properly heated oven means even cooking and just the right golden finish.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Cut the chilled dough into manageable pieces and roll each piece into a ball with your hands. Place these dough balls onto a baking sheet, spaced evenly to allow for slight spreading.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the hot oven for about 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely light golden color. Keep an eye on them—the goal is a soft, tender cookie with just enough color to hint at caramelization and flavor development.
Step 8: The Final Touch
After the cookies have cooled down, gently dip each one in milk and sprinkle generously with sugar. This enchanting finishing step adds extra sweetness, a delicate crunch, and a subtle moistness that elevates each cookie bite.
How to Serve Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest on top adds a beautiful finishing touch and deepens the citrus aroma for your guests.
Side Dishes
Pair these Lemon Sugar Cookies with a cup of hot tea, a refreshing lemonade, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Their bright, citrusy flavor harmonizes perfectly with creamy or fruity accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking and tying them with a pretty ribbon for gifting, or arrange the cookies on a colorful platter with fresh lemon slices and mint sprigs for a stunning presentation at parties or afternoon gatherings. They are both a treat for the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your extra Lemon Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This preserves their tender texture and keeps the lemony aroma fresh without drying them out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm the cookies in a low oven (about 150°C / 300°F) for 5–8 minutes to refresh their softness and bring back that fresh-baked aroma. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery or too soft.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?
Yes, lemon extract can substitute fresh lemon juice, but it is more concentrated. Use it sparingly (about 1 teaspoon) to avoid overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can give it a try by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be aware that the texture might vary slightly since cornstarch and gluten-free flours behave differently in dough.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll and shape, and also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking so they keep their lovely shape and tender texture.
Can I skip dipping cookies in milk before sprinkling sugar?
While optional, dipping in milk adds a subtle moisture that helps the sugar adhere and gives a slight creamy finish. Skipping this step will not ruin the cookies but reduces that little extra special touch.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh and delicious for about 4 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about baking and sharing this Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe. The combination of citrus freshness with tender, sweet dough creates a cookie that’s simple yet impressive. I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s perfect for any time you want to add a little sunshine to your day or to brighten someone else’s. Enjoy baking and savor every bite of these delightful cookies!
Print
Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful, tangy treat perfect for any occasion. Soft and lightly sweetened with a burst of fresh lemon zest and juice, they offer a refreshing twist on classic sugar cookies. Easy to make and wonderfully versatile, they can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared at gatherings.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 50 ml (3 tbsp.) lemon juice
- 30 ml (2 tbsp.) vegetable oil
- 120 ml (½ cup) milk (for dipping)
Dry Ingredients
- 60g (½ cup) sugar
- ½ lemon (zest)
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
- 210g (1 â…” cup) all-purpose flour
- 50g (¼ cup) cornstarch
- Sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, vegetable oil, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined, allowing the flavors to blend evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or stir together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder until uniformly mixed to ensure even rising and texture.
- Integrate Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet egg mixture, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, fully combined dough without lumps.
- Chill Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to shape and ensuring the cookies hold their shape when baked.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure correct baking temperature.
- Shape Cookies: Cut the chilled dough into small pieces, rolling each into a ball, and place them with some space apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a non-stick surface.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until they turn lightly golden around the edges, indicating they are cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: After cooling slightly, dip each cookie briefly in milk for a soft touch, then sprinkle generously with sugar to add a sweet, crunchy topping. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough is crucial to prevent spreading and to develop a better flavor.
- Dipping cookies in milk after baking is optional but adds a unique moistness and sweetness.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to 5 days.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
