If you're looking for a cookie that's bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, Lemon Zest Sugar Cookies are your answer. These cookies combine the tangy zing of lemon with the comforting sweetness of sugar to create a treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a summer picnic or simply want to add a splash of sunshine to a rainy day, these cookies have got you covered.
Butter: The unsalted variety lets you control the saltiness of the cookies and provides a rich, creamy base.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that delightful, slightly crispy edge.
Egg: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
Lemon zest: The star of the show, delivering a burst of lemony flavor without the sourness of the juice.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a subtle warmth to the cookies.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, giving it structure and texture.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread just the right amount.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Extra granulated sugar: Coating the dough balls in sugar gives them a lovely, sparkling finish and a bit of crunch.
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or a tall glass of iced lemonade, especially on a warm day. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to a springtime dessert platter.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly from the get-go. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You'll want them to be light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is crucial because it determines the texture of your cookies.
Next, beat in the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until they're well combined. The lemon zest will infuse the dough with that fresh, citrusy aroma.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Once your dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar, giving them a light coating. This step adds a delightful crunch to the finished cookies.
Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will give them room to spread without merging into each other.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They'll continue to bake a bit from residual heat, so don't worry if they seem slightly underdone in the center.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for around 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set up and develop the best texture.
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