Soft lemon cookies

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Soft Lemon Cookies

Introduction

Soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these Soft Lemon Cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. With a light texture and a refreshing citrus aroma, they are ideal for springtime, summer gatherings, or any time you crave a bright and zesty treat. Whether paired with a cup of tea or enjoyed as a snack, these cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Lemon-flavored desserts have been cherished in European and Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Lemons, originally from Asia, became widely cultivated in Italy, Greece, and Spain, influencing many beloved pastries and cookies. Soft lemon cookies resemble traditional Italian lemon ricotta cookies but with a chewier texture. In the United States, lemon cookies gained popularity as a refreshing alternative to rich, chocolate-based treats, especially in Southern baking traditions, where citrus fruits are abundant.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cookies:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional but Recommended):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest

Optional Additions

  • White chocolate chips – For a creamy, sweet contrast.
  • Poppy seeds – Adds texture and a slight crunch.
  • Almond extract – Enhances the flavor profile.
  • Cream cheese – Mixing a little into the dough makes the cookies extra soft.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor; bottled lemon juice won’t compare.
  2. Do Not Overmix – Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of soft, pillowy ones.
  3. Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
  4. Use Parchment Paper – Helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
  5. Let the Cookies Cool Before Glazing – This prevents the glaze from melting off.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Chill and Shape

  1. Cover and chill the dough for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor and texture.
  2. Scoop 1 tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls.
  3. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden but the centers remain soft.
  2. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional but highly recommended)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and let the glaze set for 10 minutes before serving.

Description

These Soft Lemon Cookies are tender, buttery, and bursting with citrusy brightness. The combination of lemon juice and zest ensures a refreshing tartness, while the sweet glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. They have a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them irresistible to lemon lovers.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 1.2g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 50mg

Conclusion

Soft Lemon Cookies are a simple yet elegant treat, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting friends, or treating yourself, these cookies bring a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Recommendation

  • Pair these cookies with hot tea, lemonade, or iced coffee for a delightful snack.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • For a fancier presentation, dust with powdered sugar or decorate with candied lemon slices.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Want a healthier version? Try these modifications:

  • Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
  • Reduce sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like honey.
  • Swap butter for coconut oil or Greek yogurt to lower saturated fat.

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