Nothing says delicious like the zesty taste of glazed lemon cookies. These delectable treats, infused with the bright flavor of lemon, are perfect for any occasion. The combination of tart lemons and sweet glaze creates a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds from the first bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight and impress.
Growing up, Sundays at my grandmother’s house always meant batches of freshly baked lemon cookies. The invigorating scent of citrus would fill every corner of the house, making it so inviting and warm. With each bite, I am transported back to those cherished memories, where these cookies were the highlight of family gatherings. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and each time I bake them, I’m reminded of those lovely afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These glazed lemon cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are perfect for any dessert table. The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip these up in no time. Plus, the refreshing lemon glaze adds an extra touch of elegance and flavor that is sure to be a hit. You’ll love how they remain moist and flavorful for days, making them an ideal treat to make ahead of time.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to these cookies lies in fresh ingredients. Always opt for organic lemons to extract the zest and juice, as their flavor is unparalleled. If you can’t get fresh lemons, lemon extract can serve as a substitute, though fresh is always best. The sugar and butter create the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, and you can use salted or unsalted butter based on preference. For gluten-free options, almond flour can be a wonderful substitute for all-purpose flour, giving the cookies an added nutty flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes of mixing on medium speed.
Step 3
Add in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until fully incorporated. Make sure the zest and juice are mixed evenly throughout the batter.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, sift the flour and baking powder, then gradually incorporate this into your wet mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
Step 5
Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool before glazing.
Storage Options
To keep your lemon cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you wish to freeze them, ensure the glaze is fully set. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at a low temperature.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegan twist, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative and replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water. To add a bit of texture and enhance the flavor, consider incorporating a handful of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the dough. For a different citrus flavor, orange or lime zest can be used in place of lemon.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon cookies are fabulous on their own but can be paired wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They are also a fantastic addition to a dessert platter, bringing a refreshing zest to the mix. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have fresh lemons? If fresh lemons are unavailable, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Lemon essential oil can also substitute, but use it sparingly as it’s quite potent.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? Ensure your butter is not overly softened, and avoid overmixing the dough post-flour addition. Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking can also help maintain the cookies’ shape.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough balls for baking later, just add a couple of additional minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Glazed Lemon Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter softened
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 egg large
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and lemon zest, beating well.
- Stir in the lemon juice.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before glazing.
