Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe: Sunshine in Every Bite!

Have you ever craved a cookie that perfectly balances sweet and tangy, a little ray of sunshine that brightens your day? Look no further! This Lemon Sugar Cookie recipe is not just another cookie recipe; it's a symphony of flavors and textures that will dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, slightly chewy cookie, bursting with bright lemon zest and coated in a delicate, sugary crust. This is that cookie. Forget the dry, crumbly sugar cookies of your past. These are melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness, guaranteed to become a family favorite! I've perfected this recipe over years of baking, tweaking and testing to achieve the ultimate lemon sugar cookie experience. Get ready to bake some happiness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are so much more than just a sweet treat. Here’s why you'll be completely obsessed:

• Intense Lemon Flavor: We're not talking about a subtle hint of lemon here. This recipe delivers a bold, refreshing lemon flavor that is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the sugar. The key? Fresh lemon zest and a touch of lemon extract.

• Soft and Chewy Texture: No one wants a dry, brittle cookie. These cookies are soft, chewy, and practically melt in your mouth. The secret lies in the ratio of ingredients and a careful baking technique.

• Easy to Make: Don't let the sophisticated flavor fool you; this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow. Even beginner bakers can achieve impressive results.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a simple afternoon treat, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

• They are addictively delicious! Seriously, try to eat just one. I dare you!

Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking success. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this Lemon Sugar Cookie recipe:

1. KitchenAid Stand Mixer: This workhorse will effortlessly cream the butter and sugar to fluffy perfection.

2. OXO Good Grips Mixing Bowl Set (3-Piece): Versatile and essential for all your mixing needs.

3. Wilton Non-Stick Baking Sheet: Ensures even baking and prevents cookies from sticking.

4. Silpat Premium Non-Stick Silicone Baking Mat: Another excellent option for preventing sticking and promoting even baking. Plus, it's reusable!

5. OXO Good Grips Cookie Scoop: For perfectly uniform cookies every time.

6. Microplane Zester Grater: Essential for finely grating the lemon zest, releasing maximum flavor.

7. Measuring Cups and Spoons Set: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.

8. Nordic Ware Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here's a detailed list of ingredients, including specific brands I recommend (and links to where you can purchase them!):

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened. I prefer using Land O' Lakes Unsalted Butter for its consistent quality.

• Granulated Sugar: 1 ½ cups. Domino Granulated Sugar always works well for me.

• Large Eggs: 2

• Lemon Zest: 2 tablespoons, from about 2 large lemons.

• Lemon Extract: 1 teaspoon. McCormick Pure Lemon Extract provides a concentrated burst of lemon flavor.

• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. I highly recommend Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Extract for its rich and complex flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups. King Arthur Baking Company All-Purpose Flour is my go-to for its consistent results.

• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon. Clabber Girl Baking Powder is a reliable choice.

• Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon. Arm & Hammer Baking Soda is a pantry staple.

• Salt: ¼ teaspoon. Morton Kosher Salt enhances the flavors.

• Granulated Sugar (for coating): ½ cup

• Optional: Sanding Sugar for extra sparkle!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to bake! Follow these simple steps for perfect Lemon Sugar Cookies every time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally ensures everything is evenly incorporated.

2. Add the Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, leading to a better rise in the cookies.

4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld together.

6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

7. Shape and Coat the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Pour the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar (and sanding sugar, if using) into a shallow bowl. Roll each cookie dough ball in the sugar to coat completely.

8. Bake the Cookies: Place the sugar-coated cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still be soft.

9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.

10. Enjoy! Now comes the best part – enjoying your freshly baked Lemon Sugar Cookies!

Tips for Perfect Cookies

Want to take your Lemon Sugar Cookie game to the next level? Here are a few expert tips:

• Don't Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Don't skip this step!

• Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest provides the most vibrant and intense lemon flavor. Avoid using dried lemon zest, as it lacks the same punch.

• Bake on the Middle Rack: Baking the cookies on the middle rack of your oven ensures even baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to bake! Follow these simple steps for perfect Lemon Sugar Cookies every time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally ensures everything is evenly incorporated.

2. Add the Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, leading to a better rise in the cookies.

4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld together.

6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

7. Shape and Coat the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Pour the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar (and sanding sugar, if using) into a shallow bowl. Roll each cookie dough ball in the sugar to coat completely.

8. Bake the Cookies: Place the sugar-coated cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still be soft.

9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.

10. Enjoy! Now comes the best part – enjoying your freshly baked Lemon Sugar Cookies!

Tips for Perfect Cookies

Want to take your Lemon Sugar Cookie game to the next level? Here are a few expert tips:

• Don't Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Don't skip this step!

• Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest provides the most vibrant and intense lemon flavor. Avoid using dried lemon zest, as it lacks the same punch.

• Bake on the Middle Rack: Baking the cookies on the middle rack of your oven ensures even baking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

• Storing: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls before baking! Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

• Serving: These Lemon Sugar Cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of other treats. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a wonderful addition to a dessert platter. They are perfect with afternoon tea, and equally delicious with a tall glass of milk.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Sugar Cookies are more than just a recipe; they're a delightful experience. The bright lemon flavor, soft texture, and easy-to-follow instructions make them a perfect choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake some sunshine!

Now, it's your turn! Try this recipe today and let me know what you think in the comments below. Don't forget to share your creations on social media using #LemonSunshineCookies. Happy Baking!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a link and purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog so I can continue to bring you delicious recipes!