Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Name: Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, delivering a burst of citrus flavor in every bite.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:35:56.522Z

These cookies are a family favorite, often made during the spring and summer months when lemons are at their freshest. The soft, chewy texture combined with the zesty lemon flavor makes them irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor
Soft and chewy texture that’s simply delightful
Quick to make, perfect for any occasion

      

The Joy of Baking with Citrus

Citrus fruits, particularly lemons, have a magical ability to brighten up any dessert. Their natural acidity balances sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. When baked into cookies, lemons add a delightful zing that makes each bite an experience. The vibrant flavor of these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies will transport your taste buds to a sunny day, regardless of the season.

Baking with lemons is not only about taste; it also brings a sense of nostalgia. For many, the aroma of lemon cookies wafting through the kitchen evokes fond memories of family gatherings and special occasions. This recipe encapsulates that warmth, making it a perfect choice for both everyday treats and festive celebrations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, attending a picnic, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies fit the bill. Their eye-catching color and bright flavor make them an appealing addition to any dessert table, ensuring they stand out among other baked goods.

Moreover, these cookies are simple to make, requiring minimal time and effort. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or snack cravings. Their delightful taste and chewy texture will impress your friends and family, leaving them asking for the recipe!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, consider placing them in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to have a delicious treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

For serving, consider pairing these cookies with a cup of tea or a refreshing lemonade to enhance their citrusy flavor. They also make great gifts when packaged in a decorative box, perfect for sharing with loved ones. A drizzle of lemon glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness and elegance, making them even more irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Mix all ingredients until well combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Prepare the Glaze

If using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, especially for flour, which can vary in density. Additionally, remember to allow your butter to soften at room temperature for the best creaming results, which contributes to the cookies' delightful texture.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined to maintain the cookies' soft and chewy texture. If you prefer a thicker cookie, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delightful as is, there are several variations you can experiment with to customize your lemon cookies. For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of lemon zest or some lemon extract. Alternatively, you can incorporate poppy seeds for a beautiful visual appeal and a subtle crunch.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough. The sweetness of white chocolate pairs wonderfully with the lemon, while nuts can add a delightful texture. These variations can easily elevate your lemon cookies, making them even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I use instead of lemon juice?

You can substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor, though it will change the overall taste of the cookies.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.