Introduction
If you love cookies that melt in your mouth with a tangy twist, this Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe will be your new favorite. Each bite blends buttery sweetness with a refreshing lemon kick — a dessert that tastes like sunshine! These homemade lemon sugar cookies are soft on the inside, slightly crisp around the edges, and kissed with lemon zest and juice for that perfect citrus aroma.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re baking for spring gatherings, tea parties, or simply to brighten your week, these cookies deliver flavor and texture that even classic sugar cookies can’t match. Let’s explore why everyone is obsessed with these easy lemon sugar cookies and how you can make them perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice create an irresistible tangy balance.
Soft and chewy texture: The dough chills before baking for perfect consistency.
Simple pantry ingredients: Butter, sugar, flour, and lemon—nothing fancy required.
Quick and easy: Just 30 minutes of prep for bakery-style cookies.
Beautifully golden edges: Lightly crisp exterior with a melt-in-your-mouth center.
Customizable: Add glaze, frosting, or white chocolate for an elegant twist.
Perfect for spring & holidays: Fresh, vibrant, and visually stunning for any dessert table.
Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults for its refreshing lemony sweetness.
Ingredients for Lemon Sugar Cookies
Cookie Dough
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – gives the cookies their tender texture.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – provides sweetness and helps with that light golden crust.
3 tbsp lemon zest – infuses natural lemon oils for a strong citrus fragrance.
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – balances sweetness with a bright tart note.
1 large egg – binds ingredients and adds richness.
3 cups all-purpose flour – the structure that holds the cookies together.
1 tsp baking soda – gives gentle lift and keeps cookies light.
¼ tsp salt – enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
For Rolling
¼ cup granulated sugar – coats each cookie for sparkle and crispness.
💡 Substitution Tip: For a deeper lemon punch, replace some of the lemon juice with ½ teaspoon lemon extract. To make them dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine.
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies
1. Mix Butter, Sugar & Lemon Zest
Beat together the butter, sugar, and lemon zest using an electric mixer for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step traps air, giving you soft and chewy cookies.
2. Add Lemon Juice & Egg
Mix in the fresh lemon juice and egg until well incorporated. The acidity of lemon enhances texture and keeps the cookies tender.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix slowly just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make cookies tough instead of soft.
4. Chill the Dough
Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This resting time solidifies the butter and intensifies the lemon flavor, preventing cookies from spreading too much during baking.
5. Shape & Coat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then coat them in granulated sugar for a sweet, crisp finish.
6. Bake
Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 11–13 minutes until edges are slightly golden but centers remain soft.
7. Cool & Enjoy
Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. This cooling phase allows them to firm up while keeping that chewy center.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Sugar Cookies
How do I make my Lemon Sugar Cookies softer?
Do not overbake. Pull them out when the edges are light gold — the centers will set as they cool.
Can I add glaze or frosting?
Yes! Mix powdered sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice for an easy lemon glaze that hardens beautifully.
Can I freeze lemon sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely. Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add 1 extra minute to baking time.
Best Ways to Serve
Enjoy these Lemon Zest Sugar Cookies with:
A cup of chamomile or green tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Vanilla ice cream for a summery dessert sandwich.
A citrus-themed dessert platter alongside Star Bread Style Recipe or White Chocolate Cherry Fudge Recipe.
Nutrition Facts (per cookie)
Calories: 135 kcal
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Sugar: 11g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 60mg
Storage & Leftovers
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight jar for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 10 days when chilled.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to revive freshness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe gluten-free?
Yes — use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. The results stay soft and chewy.
Q: How can I make these more lemony?
Add a dash of lemon extract or glaze with lemon icing for a stronger citrus kick.
Q: Why do my cookies turn flat?
Your butter might be too warm or dough under-chilled. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
Variations to Try
Lemon Sugar Cookies with Frosting: Spread cream cheese frosting and sprinkle lemon zest on top.
Crispy Lemon Sugar Cookies: Flatten dough slightly before baking and extend time by 1–2 minutes.
Lemon Drop Cookies: Add white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
Lemon Cream Sugar Cookies: Sandwich lemon curd between two cookies for a decadent dessert bite.