Description

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a soft, chewy center and a delicate crinkled top dusted in powdered sugar. These cookies are a delightful treat for lemon lovers, offering a bright and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress. The best part? They’re quick and easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love.

Ingredients

• For the dough:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For rolling:
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a soft and airy texture in the cookies.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest to the butter mixture. Beat everything together until fully combined, allowing the citrus aroma to infuse the dough.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, but avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies dense.

Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls with your hands. For the signature crinkled look, roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows enough room for the cookies to spread as they bake.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain soft and slightly underdone in the center for the best texture. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Conclusion

For a more pronounced lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the dough or increase the amount of lemon zest slightly.

To keep the cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months and bake them fresh when needed.

If you’d like to experiment, try incorporating poppy seeds into the dough for a unique twist, or drizzle the baked cookies with a simple lemon glaze for an extra layer of sweetness.
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, offering a refreshing burst of citrus that’s both comforting and invigorating. Their crinkly tops and soft texture make them visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guarantees rave reviews. Explore more citrus-inspired recipes on our site and share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!