There’s something magical about the bright, tangy flavor of lemon combined with the sweet, comforting taste of a sugar cookie. These Lemon Sugar Cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a ray of sunshine in your kitchen. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the aroma of fresh lemon zest baking in the oven is sure to fill your home with warmth and happiness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is for you. So, let’s tie on our aprons and get baking!
Zesty Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 2 large lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 4-5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing!)
Tools of the Trade:
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Zester
- Whisk
Let’s Get Baking:
1. Prepping the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a perfect cookie rise.
2. Creaming for Flavor:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where the stand mixer comes in handy, but a hand mixer works just as well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. This is where the magic happens! The zest and juice infuse the dough with that irresistible lemon flavor.
3. Bringing it Together:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix, as it can make the cookies tough.
4. Shaping and Baking:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.