Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies With Lemon Glaze

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Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Glaze

If you love cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh flavor, these Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies are for you. Bright, citrusy, and finished with a tangy lemon glaze, they are the perfect balance of sweetness and zing. These cookies are wonderful in spring and summer, but their cheerful flavor makes them a treat any time of the year. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, this recipe is ideal for both experienced bakers and beginners.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 3/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust for consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Add lemon zest if desired for extra flavor.
  10. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the tops. Let the glaze set before serving.

Why These Cookies Are Special

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are not just ordinary sugar cookies. The fresh lemon juice and zest bring a brightness that lifts the flavor and gives the cookies a refreshing twist. The buttery dough keeps them soft and tender, while the lemon glaze enhances the citrus punch. Each bite has a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that makes them incredibly addictive.

Baking Tips

For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated zest. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t give the same vibrancy. Be careful not to overbake the cookies; remove them when the edges just begin to turn golden for a chewy center. If you prefer crispier cookies, bake for an additional minute or two.

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe. Add a handful of white chocolate chips to the dough for a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with lemon. For a floral touch, add a teaspoon of dried lavender buds to the dough. If you want a stronger citrus profile, substitute half the lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a mixed citrus cookie.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect on their own, but they pair especially well with a cup of tea, coffee, or a tall glass of iced lemonade. Serve them at baby showers, summer parties, or holiday gatherings for a refreshing treat. They also make great gifts when packaged in a decorative tin or tied with ribbon.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature and add the glaze before serving. The glaze itself will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, so you can make it ahead of time.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic recipe. With their buttery texture, fresh lemon flavor, and sweet glaze, they are sure to brighten any dessert table. Simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough for celebrations, these cookies will quickly become a favorite. Bake a batch, share with friends and family, and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon in every bite.

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