Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Cookies

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 24
Be the First to Review!

If you’re in the mood for a cookie that’s both creamy and zesty, these Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Cookies are your answer. The bright lemon flavor paired with the richness of cream cheese makes these cookies stand out. They're perfect for a sunny afternoon treat or a delightful dessert after dinner.

Ingredients for Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Cookies

Butter provides the rich base, making these cookies tender. Use unsalted to control the salt levels.

Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and creamy texture, giving the cookies their soft chewiness.

Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies just right, balancing the tang of cream cheese and lemon.

Egg acts as a binder, ensuring that the cookies hold together nicely.

Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.

Lemon zest is the star, providing a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor.

All-purpose flour forms the structure of the cookies, making them sturdy yet soft.

Baking powder gives a slight rise, keeping the cookies light.

Salt sharpens the flavors, balancing sweetness and enhancing the lemony notes.

Powdered sugar dusted on top adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your butter and cream cheese are well softened for easier mixing.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor — avoid the pre-packaged kind.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to handle.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of herbal tea. For a special treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of lemon syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to balance the flavors.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container for up to five days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Roll it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.

Lemon Zest Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and easy cleanup. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. You’re looking for a creamy, homogenous mixture here.

Gradually add the sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take a few minutes and is crucial for the texture of your cookies. Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until everything is well combined. The lemon zest will immediately brighten up the mixture with its fragrance.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. This will give them room to spread. Gently press each ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass to flatten them slightly.

Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. This is the perfect time to grab a quick break or clean up. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for that finishing touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infused with fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy aroma.
  • Soft and chewy texture thanks to the cream cheese.
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
  • Quick to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp lemon zest
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
3. Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
8. Press each ball lightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!