Ingredients
Main Ingredients












Instructions
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, beat the **unsalted butter** and **granulated sugar** together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Next, add in the **large egg** and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
Grate the zest off the **lemons** using a fine grater and add it to the butter mixture, stirring well to combine.
Step 2
Now, in a separate bowl, mix together the **all-purpose flour** and **baking powder**. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until a dough forms. This can also be done by hand if preferred.
Step 3
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about **1.5 to 2 hours**. This step is crucial as it helps the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle later on.
Step 4
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to **180°C (350°F)**. Take small pieces of dough, roughly **40 grams (about 1.5 ounces)** each, and quickly roll them into balls. Keep in mind the dough may become soft if handled too long.
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced about **5-7 centimeters (2-3 inches)** apart.
Step 5
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for **17-20 minutes** or until they are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on the size of the cookies and your oven's characteristics.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6
Once cooled, your **delicious lemon cookies** are ready to be enjoyed! These cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Servings
Once your delicious lemon cookies are baked and cooled, it’s time to serve them up in style! These cookies are perfect for afternoon tea ☕️ or as a sweet snack while on the go. Consider placing them on a beautiful serving platter and garnishing with fresh lemon slices 🍋 for an eye-catching display.
Pair these cookies with a refreshing glass of lemonade or an herbal tea for a perfect afternoon break. You can also sandwich them with a light lemon frosting for an indulgent treat that will wow your guests. The vibrant flavor combined with irresistible softness makes these cookies a crowd favorite!
Don't forget to pack a few in a cute tin for a thoughtful homemade gift that will make anyone feel loved. With every bite, your friends and family will appreciate the time and care you put into making these delightful treats! 💖
Equipment
A good mixing bowl is key for this recipe. Look for one that's large enough to comfortably mix your ingredients without making a mess!



If you have a hand mixer, it can save you time and effort. Otherwise, a whisk will work just fine - it’s a great workout for your arms!
Make sure your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure an even bake.



This tool is essential for getting that fresh lemon zest. A microplane works wonderfully for achieving fine shavings!
Variations
If you're looking for some delicious twists on this classic lemon cookie recipe, then check out these options! For a **gluten-free** version, simply swap out regular flour for a quality gluten-free flour blend. Most blends will work well, but be sure to follow the instructions for best results. 🌾
For those following a **vegan** diet, you can replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens). This will keep the cookies just as yummy while meeting your dietary needs! 🌱
Faq
- What if my cookie dough is too soft?
No worries! Just pop the dough in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes. Chilling will help firm it up and make it easier to handle.
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works. Just keep in mind it may not be as vibrant!
- How can I make my cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding a bit more lemon zest or a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor that compliments the citrus nicely!
- Is it okay to freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled cookie dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer. Just remember to add a couple extra minutes to the baking time.
- What if the cookies spread too much during baking?
Your oven temperature may be too low, or the dough might be too warm. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly and that the dough is cold before baking.
- How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool!