Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Sugar Cookies (Soft, Chewy & Bright with Fresh Citrus Flavor)


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

Scale

For the cookies:

  • ¾ cup (1½ sticks / 170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt

For rolling & glaze:

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: lemon zest or edible glitter for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cream wet ingredients: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (~3 min). Add egg, lemon juice, and zest; mix well.
  2. Add dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
  3. Chill dough: Wrap in plastic and refrigerate at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
  4. Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
  5. Roll & bake: Scoop 1-tbsp dough balls. Roll in sugar. Place 2″ apart on sheets. Flatten slightly with palm.
  6. Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers look soft. Cool 5 minutes on pan, then transfer to rack.
  7. Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies. Sprinkle with zest if desired.
💡 Pro Tips:
Chilling is key—it prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
– For extra tang, add ½ tsp lemon extract to the dough.
– Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days—they stay soft!

Prep Time & Nutrition (per cookie, makes 24):

Prep Time: 15 min (+ chilling) | Cook Time: 12 min | Total Time: 1 hr 30 min
Servings: 24 | Calories: 110 | Net Carbs: 16g | Fats: 5g | Protein: 1g