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Irresistibly Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies

These cookies are bright, tangy, and sweet, featuring a tender texture and punchy lemon flavor that will brighten your day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups 2 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 large 1 large egg Make sure the egg is at room temperature.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon of lemon zest Always use fresh lemons.
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice Use fresh juice for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Coating
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup of granulated sugar for rolling

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Mix in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined.
  6. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar.
Baking
  1. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and the centers remain pale.
  3. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

These cookies can keep for about 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for fresh-baked warmth.