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Lemon Sugar Cookies

Lemon Sugar Cookies

These lemon sugar cookies are bright, buttery rounds that pack a citrus flavor, perfect for any occasion. They are tender with slightly crisp edges and can be dressed up or left plain. Ideal for picnics, bake sales, or casual snacking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 145
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until no flour streaks remain.
  6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough, roll them into balls, and coat in granulated sugar.
  7. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers look slightly underdone.
  9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.