🍋 Lemon Cookies with Lemon Icing

Name: 🍋 Lemon Cookies with Lemon Icing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 1/2 tablespoons milk; 2 tablespoons lemon zest

Introduction

Lemon lovers, this one’s for you! These delightful Lemon Cookies with Lemon Icing are the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, bursting with fresh citrus flavor in every bite. The soft, buttery cookies are topped with a zesty lemon icing that adds just the right amount of sweetness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, need a refreshing dessert, or just want to enjoy a delicious snack, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Cookies:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon zest

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Icing:

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons milk
2 tablespoons lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure easy removal of the cookies and prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside. In a large bowl, using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 5 minutes.

Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated, making sure the zest and juice are evenly distributed. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cookies tough.

3. Shape & Bake

Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop or a spoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Keep an eye on the cookies in the final minutes of baking to avoid over-baking. Once done, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool, prepare the lemon icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for a thicker icing.

5. Ice the Cookies

Once the cookies are fully cooled, spoon or drizzle the lemon icing over the top of each cookie. Let the icing set on the cooling racks before serving. If you prefer a more decorative finish, you can sprinkle additional lemon zest over the icing while it is still wet.

Notes

Preheat the Oven: It’s crucial to preheat the oven for at least 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. This will give your cookies a vibrant, natural lemon flavor that can’t be matched by bottled juice.

Test the Dough: If you find that the dough spreads too much during baking, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before shaping and baking the cookies.
Icing Tips: Adjust the thickness of the icing by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. Ice the cookies on the same day they are baked for the best texture.

Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegetarian

Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie)

Calories: 212 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g

Cholesterol: 33mg
Sodium: 102mg
Sugar: 19g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I freeze Lemon Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze Lemon Cookies. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Fresh juice has a brighter, more intense flavor that is key to making these cookies taste their best.

3. How do I store these cookies?

Store Lemon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have iced the cookies, make sure the icing is fully set before stacking them to prevent sticking.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Be sure to use a high-quality blend for the best results.

5. What if I don’t have a cookie scoop?

If you don’t have a cookie scoop, you can use a tablespoon to measure out the dough. Roll the dough into balls with your hands for uniform cookies.

These Lemon Cookies with Lemon Icing are a refreshing and delicious treat that are sure to brighten your day. With their soft texture, zesty flavor, and sweet icing, they’re the perfect cookie to enjoy any time of the year!