Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens up any day, my Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are just the thing! These cookies are bursting with lemon flavor and have a wonderfully soft, buttery texture that makes them irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies will definitely steal the spotlight. They’re perfect for sharing or simply enjoying with a cup of tea!

Every bite of these cookies is like a little burst of sunshine! The combination of zesty lemon and sweet sugar creates a magical balance that will leave you craving more. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any baking enthusiast.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves the bright lemon flavor; they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and chill it, which means you can bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.
• Deliciously chewy: The texture of these cookies is soft and chewy, ensuring each bite is filled with delightful lemon goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies use simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for these delicious treats!

For the Cookies

• 12 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 2 tsp lemon extract (or 1 tsp each lemon and vanilla extract)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• ¾ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ cup granulated sugar, for rolling & garnishing

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing for fun twists on the classic cookie! Here are some ideas to personalize your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies:

• Add some zest: Mix in some poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Change up the flavors: Swap out some of the lemon extract for orange or almond extract for a unique taste.
• Include fruit: Fold in dried cranberries or blueberries to add a fruity touch that complements the lemon perfectly.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use an egg replacer to create a vegan version.

How to Make Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Do this for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scraping down the sides as needed helps ensure everything gets mixed well. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely light texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, add in your large egg and egg yolk along with the lemon extract. Mix again until everything is well combined. Adding both an egg and an extra yolk gives richness while keeping them soft—this is key to achieving that chewy texture everyone loves!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your dry ingredients. Pile them into your mixing bowl, placing the baking soda on top. This ensures even distribution when mixed in. It’s crucial not to overmix at this stage; just mix until combined so your cookies stay tender.

Step 4: Activate Baking Soda with Lemon Juice

Pour in your freshly squeezed lemon juice right on top of the baking soda—it will foam up! This reaction activates your baking soda, helping your cookies rise beautifully while enhancing their lovely lemon flavor.

Step 5: Chill Your Dough

At this point, you can either refrigerate your dough as-is or scoop it into balls first. If scooping first, aim for about 1 ½ – 2 tablespoons per cookie ball. Chilling is important because it firms up the dough, preventing spreading during baking.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

After chilling your dough for at least an hour, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While waiting, roll each cookie ball in granulated sugar before placing them on lined baking sheets—this adds sweetness on top as they bake.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake each batch for just 10-12 minutes. It’s critical not to overbake; they should still be soft when you take them out of the oven. Swirling a cup around them while they are warm helps shape them into perfect circles!

Step 8: Cool Down

Let them rest on their baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. They’ll look puffy straight from the oven but will settle nicely as they cool down!

Once cooled, feel free to sprinkle more granulated sugar or even some additional lemon zest on top for that extra sparkly finish! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Baking these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips will help ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature ensures better incorporation into the dough, leading to a smoother texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking. This results in thicker cookies that maintain their soft and chewy centers.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid compacting it. This precision helps achieve the right cookie texture.
• Keep an eye on bake time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark. They should be just set around the edges and puffy in the center.
• Swirl for perfection: Using a cup to gently swirl around the cookies right after they come out of the oven creates beautifully round shapes—perfect for presentation!

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas to elevate your cookie presentation!

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top adds an extra pop of color and enhances the lemony aroma.
• Powdered sugar: Dusting with powdered sugar gives a snowy effect, making them look even more inviting.
• Edible flowers: For a whimsical touch, consider garnishing with edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums which pair beautifully with lemon flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the zingy flavor of the cookies and balances out their sweetness.
• Lemon sorbet: Serve alongside a scoop of lemon sorbet for a delightful citrus explosion that refreshes the palate.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea brings out the cookie’s flavors while providing a soothing contrast.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and lemon curd for a creamy, tangy side that pairs wonderfully with these cookies.

Enjoy your baking adventure! These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are sure to bring smiles all around, whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the dough ahead of time or store the cookies for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze cookie dough, scoop and roll the balls, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Once frozen solid, transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• To bake from frozen, add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• For warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that you might have while making these delicious cookies!

How do I ensure my Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies turn out perfectly?

To achieve that soft and chewy texture, be careful not to overmix your dough. Also, make sure to watch the baking time closely and remove them from the oven while they’re still soft.

Can I use other citrus flavors instead of lemon for these cookies?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemon juice and zest with lime or orange juice and zest for a different twist. Just be mindful of adjusting the sugar levels if you choose a less sweet citrus fruit.

How long do Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Can I replace ingredients in Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies?

Yes! You can use dairy-free butter alternatives if you’re looking for vegan options. Just ensure that other ingredients like extracts and flour remain compatible with your dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies as much as I do! Their bright flavor and delightful chewiness make them a standout dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family—there’s enough lemony goodness to go around! Happy baking!