A Burst of Citrus with a Buttery, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Finish
These Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies are a citrus lover’s dream—packed with fresh lemon zest and juice, rolled in granulated sugar, and baked to golden perfection. With a crisp, sugary crust and a soft, buttery center, they’re perfect for spring, summer, or whenever you need a sweet-tart pick-me-up.
A bakery-style treat that’s easy to make at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍋 Zesty Lemon Base: Freshly grated lemon zest and juice deliver bold, bright flavor in every bite.
- 🧈 Buttery Richness: High butter content ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a hint of caramelized warmth.
- 🍪 Sugar-Coated Crunch: A roll in granulated sugar creates a crackly exterior that contrasts with the chewy interior.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute cravings.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family gatherings, school events, or as a gift.
Ingredients (Makes 24 cookies):
For the Dough:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter , softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar , plus extra for rolling (or powdered sugar for smoother texture)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon zest (about 2 medium lemons – bottled zest works in a pinch)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or white wine vinegar for tangy twist)
- 1 large egg (room temperature for smooth blending)
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum)
- 1 tsp baking soda (for lift and chewiness)
- ½ tsp baking powder (for spread and rise)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust if using salted butter)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Sheets
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats —set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar & Zest
In a large bowl, beat:
- Butter, sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes with a mixer).
Add lemon juice and egg , mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk:
- Flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt .
Gradually mix into the butter-sugar base until just combined—avoid overmixing to prevent toughness.
Step 4: Shape & Roll
Using a small scoop or spoon, form 1-inch dough balls .
Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat evenly.
Place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes , or until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft.
Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Serve & Store
Cool completely before storing.
Optional: Drizzle with lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice) for extra zing.
Each bite brings together:
- Crispy, sugary cookie shell
- Silky, lemon-kissed buttery center
- And that classic citrus finish
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temp Butter & Egg: Ensures smooth blending without lumps.
- 🥣 Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined—this keeps cookies tender.
- 🍋 Zest First: Extract zest before juicing to maximize flavor.
- 🥟 Chill the Dough: If dough becomes too soft, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Freeze unbaked dough balls and bake directly from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with iced tea, coffee, or sparkling lemon water .
- Great with whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a dollop of lemon curd .
- Ideal for spring picnics, summer nights, or late-night cravings .
Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes 24 – approximate):
(With regular butter and sugar – per serving)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~7g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~9g
These Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies prove that simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. With their crisp crust, buttery center, and bright lemon finish—they’re a must-bake for lovers of bold, comforting baked goods.
Additional Notes:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
- Vegan Swap: Replace butter with vegan margarine and egg with 1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container for 5–7 days—add a slice of bread for softness.
- Flavor Hack: Add ½ tsp almond extract to the dough for a marzipan-like finish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and freeze for quick breakfast bites or after-dinner treats.
Pro Tip: For a crunchier cookie , flatten dough balls slightly before baking.
Serving Idea: Sandwich two cookies with lemon mascarpone cream for a cookie sandwich.
History Fun: Lemon sugar cookies blend European shortbread tradition with American citrus baking —a modern twist on a timeless treat.
