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Lemon Cookies

Bright, buttery cookies with a refreshing lemon flavor, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Coarse sparkling sugar (optional)
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for icing, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for icing)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (for icing)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for icing)
  • Fresh lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place the granulated sugar and lemon zest in a food processor and pulse until moistened.
  2. In a bowl, beat the lemon sugar and butter together until creamy.
  3. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, then mix well until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the flour, cornstarch, and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
  6. Refrigerate the cut cookies for 3 hours to firm the dough.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. If using sparkling sugar, sprinkle it on top before baking.
  9. Bake cookies for 14 to 15 minutes until edges are set.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  11. For icing, whisk confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  12. Ice the cooled cookies with the glaze and let set.

Notes

Chill the dough for clean shapes, and use a light dusting of flour when rolling to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cookies, citrus dessert, baking, cookies, afternoon tea