Lemon Sugar Cookies

Name: Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: January 2, 2026

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Introduction to Lemon Sugar Cookies

Welcome to my little corner of the culinary world, where today we’re diving into the delightful realm of Lemon Sugar Cookies! As a busy mom, I know how precious our time can be, and that’s why I adore this recipe. If you’re looking for a quick solution to brighten a long day or a sweet treat to impress your loved ones, look no further! With their refreshing citrus zing, these cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a flavorful hug in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bake some sunshine!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about Lemon Sugar Cookies that makes them a hit for any occasion! They’re super easy to whip up, taking just about 26 minutes from start to finish. The bright, zesty flavor will have your taste buds dancing, while the soft, chewy texture provides comfort that reminds me of sunny days. Plus, they make a fantastic treat to share at gatherings or cozy family nights. Everyone will ask for seconds!

Ingredients for Lemon Sugar Cookies

Let’s gather our ingredients to embark on this zesty baking adventure! Here’s what you’ll need to create your Lemon Sugar Cookies:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookies, providing that wonderful structure.
Baking soda: This little leavening agent helps our cookies rise nicely in the oven.
Baking powder: Adds extra lift, ensuring a soft and fluffy texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Rich and creamy, it adds moisture and a delicious buttery taste to each bite.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This sugar creates that lovely crisp edge and chewy center.
Large egg: It binds the ingredients together and adds richness to our cookies.
Vanilla extract: This classic flavor complements our lemon and brings warmth to the cookies.
Fresh lemon juice: The star of the show! It’s what gives these cookies their refreshing flair.
Lemon zest: This tiny addition packs a punch of aromatic lemon flavor, elevating every bite.

For those who want to tweak the recipe a bit, consider swapping unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Feel free to use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh really does shine! The full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print. Let’s get baking!

How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving those perfectly baked Lemon Sugar Cookies. While the oven warms up, grab your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This simple step will prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Plus, the cookies will bake evenly. Trust me, starting off right makes a world of difference in baking!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This process is essential! It helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents for the finest texture. I love using a whisk for this; it’s like giving the flour a mini spa treatment. This airiness allows our cookies to rise beautifully, so take your time to achieve a nice blend.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, it’s time to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a mixer makes this part a breeze, but a sturdy spoon works too if you’re feeling adventurous! Beat in one large egg, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until everything is well blended. This mixture should look light and fluffy, creating a dreamy base for our Lemon Sugar Cookies.

Step 4: Mix the Dough

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry ingredients from your earlier bowl into the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. I usually switch to a spatula or a wooden spoon when the dough gets thick. Remember, overmixing at this stage can lead to tougher cookies, so stop once everything is smoothly combined. This dough is the promise of delightful cookies ahead!

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Grab a tablespoon and scoop out portions of dough. Roll each one into balls, and then coat them lightly in granulated sugar. Place the sugar-coated balls onto your lined baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. This allows room for spreading. Bake these beauties in your preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes until they’re lightly golden. The aroma will have you eagerly awaiting the next step!

Step 6: Cooling the Cookies

Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up, making it easier to transfer. After that, gently move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. You’ll want to resist the urge to munch too soon. Allowing them to cool finishes their texture perfectly, giving you that ideal soft and chewy bite!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature butter for smooth creaming.
Don’t skip the zest; it’s the secret to vibrant lemon flavor!
For extra pizzazz, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Keep an eye on your cookies; they can go from perfect to overbaked in a flash!
Try different shapes—use cookie cutters for fun holiday designs!

Equipment Needed for Lemon Sugar Cookies

Baking sheets: Regular cookie sheets work great; just line them with parchment paper.
Mixing bowls: A medium bowl for dry ingredients and a larger one for wet ingredients.
Whisk: A simple fork can substitute for mixing dry ingredients.
Electric mixer: Can’t beat it, but a sturdy spoon will do if you prefer a workout!
Cookie scoop: A tablespoon measures perfectly, making shaping cookies easy!

Variations of Lemon Sugar Cookies

Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.
Lemon-blueberry twist: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity explosion alongside the lemon flavor.
Lavender lemon cookies: Add a teaspoon of culinary lavender to the dough for a floral touch that pairs beautifully with lemon.
Frosted cookies: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over cooled cookies for added sweetness.
Whole grain option: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber while retaining flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Sugar Cookies

Serve with a steaming cup of herbal tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Pair with fresh berries for a colorful and refreshing dessert platter.
For a sunny presentation, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices.
Enjoy alongside a scoop of lemon sorbet for a delightful dessert duo.
Wrap in festive packaging for a thoughtful gift that brightens anyone’s day!

FAQs about Lemon Sugar Cookies

Got questions about these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries that pop up, along with my answers:

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? Absolutely! While fresh lemon juice offers a brighter flavor, bottled juice is fine in a pinch. Just remember to adjust for taste.

How do I store leftover cookies? To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll be good for about a week—if they last that long!

Can I freeze these cookies? Yes! These Lemon Sugar Cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll be ready for a last-minute treat!

What can I do if my dough is too sticky? If your dough seems sticky, a light dusting of flour or chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes can help. This will make it easier to work with!

How can I make these cookies more lemony? For an extra lemon punch, increase the lemon zest and juice. You can even try adding a bit of lemon extract for intensity!

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they encapsulate the joy of home baking! Every bite bursts with sunny flavor, instantly lifting spirits after a long day. Whether shared with family during a cozy evening or gifted to friends, their charm always wins hearts. Plus, making these cookies can be a cherished experience, creating memories in your kitchen. Trust me; you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again! So, gather your ingredients and spread the love—with each cookie, you’re baking smiles and sweetness into cherished moments.