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Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft in the center, lightly crisp around the edges, and packed with fresh citrus flavor, these lemon sugar cookies are made with real lemon zest and juice. Each cookie is rolled in sugar before baking for a delicate sparkle and a tender, buttery finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • Zest from 2 medium lemons
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

Equipment

  • Two medium mixing bowls
  • Fine grater or citrus zester
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Digital kitchen scale, optional
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Two baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Prepare the ingredients
  2. Make the lemon sugar
  3. Mix the dry ingredients
  4. Cream the butter and sugar
  5. Add the wet ingredients
  6. Form the dough
  7. Chill the dough
  8. Preheat the oven
  9. Shape and coat the cookies
  10. Bake the cookies
  11. Cool before serving

Notes

  • Measure flour with a kitchen scale for the most reliable texture.
  • When using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level the top. Do not scoop it directly from the bag.
  • Use only the yellow part of the lemon peel. The white layer underneath can taste bitter.
  • Keep the lemon juice to 2 tablespoons. Extra liquid may cause the cookies to spread.
  • Place dough on a cool baking sheet. A warm tray can melt the butter before baking begins.
  • For a stronger lemon flavor, add ¼ to ½ teaspoon lemon extract with the vanilla.
  • For slightly crispier cookies, bake for an extra 1 to 2 minutes.