When it comes to baking, few ingredients are as versatile and inviting as lemons. With their bright citrus flavor and aroma, lemons can elevate even the simplest of cookie recipes into a tangy and tantalizing treat. Whether you’re looking for a classic sugar cookie with a hint of lemon zest or something more adventurous like lemon-glazed shortbread or lemon-poppy seed cookies, there’s a zesty lemon cookie recipe out there to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 picks for the most irresistibly tangy and delicious lemon cookie recipes you’ll ever try. From sweet treats like lemon butter cookies with thyme to savory options like lemon ricotta cookies with almond glaze, we’ve got a little something for everyone in this collection of citrusy goodies.
Classic Lemon Sugar Cookies
Classic Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe
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Brighten up your cookie jar with these sweet and tangy treats! This recipe yields a batch of soft, chewy cookies with a lovely balance of lemon zest and sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon juice and zest.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your shortbread game with a burst of citrusy flavor! These Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery goodness and tangy zing.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Crinkle Cookies with Powdered Sugar
These tender cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and topped with a crunchy powdered sugar coating. Perfect for a sweet pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Butter Cookies with Thyme
These citrusy cookies are infused with the warmth of thyme, making them a perfect combination for any occasion. With a short baking time, they’re also a great option for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Stir in thyme and flour.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies combine the classic flavors of white chocolate chips with the brightness of lemon zest and juice, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon juice and zest.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sunny lemon poppy seed cookies, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Stir in poppy seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Soft Lemon Snickerdoodle Cookies
These Soft Lemon Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a soft and chewy texture. With the brightness of lemon zest and juice, these cookies will become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Coconut Macaroons
Lemon Coconut Macaroons Recipe
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy Lemon Coconut Macaroons! Made with the perfect balance of coconut, lemon zest, and a hint of citrus, these chewy cookies are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat butter and egg whites until smooth. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice; mix well.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until a dough forms. Stir in chopped lemon zest.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Yield: About 24 macaroons
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Lavender Cookies
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and floral cookies, perfect for a springtime treat.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried lavender buds
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon juice and lavender buds.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cookies with Almond Glaze
These soft and chewy cookies get a burst of sunshine from the addition of lemon zest and juice, while the ricotta cheese adds a creamy richness. The almond glaze provides a sweet and crunchy contrast to the cookies’ tender centers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Almond glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Almond Glaze:
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons almond extract
– 2 tablespoons water
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Chewy Lemon Ginger Cookies
Brighten up your day with these chewy cookies bursting with citrusy freshness and spicy warmth. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon juice and ginger.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Meringue Sandwich Cookies
These bite-sized cookies combine the sweetness of meringue with the tartness of lemon, all wrapped up in a crispy cookie package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup meringue topping (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh lemon zest and juice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely before sandwiching with meringue topping and garnishing with lemon zest and juice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Almond Biscotti
Brighten up your day with these crunchy and flavorful lemon almond biscotti, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Shape dough into 12-inch logs and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
9. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Basil Thumbprint Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy Lemon Basil Thumbprint Cookies, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and basil leaves; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumb or a cookie cutter to create shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies
These cookies are a perfect blend of tangy lemon and creamy cheese, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. With a short list of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add cream cheese and beat until smooth.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon zest and juice.
6. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Oatmeal Cookies with Dried Cranberries
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and chewy cookies, packed with the natural sweetness of dried cranberries. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest and juice; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pistachio Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the brightness of lemon zest with the crunch of chopped pistachios, perfect for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp grated lemon zest
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice and zest.
5. Stir in flour mixture and pistachios until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Shortbread
Lemon Rosemary Shortbread: A Bright and Herbaceous Twist on a Classic Treat
These buttery shortbreads are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the earthiness of rosemary, making them perfect for a refreshing snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and rosemary.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place shortbreads on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Honey Cookies with Sea Salt
These citrusy cookies combine the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of lemon zest, finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for a warm-weather snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp sea salt
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll balls of dough, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing from oven.
Lemon Blackberry Swirl Cookies
Lemon Blackberry Swirl Cookies Recipe
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and sweet cookies that combine the zesty flavor of lemon zest with the tartness of blackberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup lemon zest
– 1 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blackberries.
6. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and spread into a rectangle shape.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your baking routine with these 20 irresistibly tangy lemon cookie recipes! From classic sugar cookies to creative twists like lemon butter cookies with thyme and lemon basil thumbprint cookies, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and simple or bold and innovative, these zesty treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get baking, and let the sunshine in with these deliciously refreshing lemon cookie recipes!
