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Lemon Cookies

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Bright, buttery, and tender lemon cookies with a fresh citrus aroma, perfect for spring gatherings and afternoon tea.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 215 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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, for sprinkling)
  • 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 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest in a food processor and pulse until combined.
  2. Beat the lemon sugar and softened butter together until creamy.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the flour, cornstarch, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Cut into shapes and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Bake cookies for 14 to 15 minutes, or until edges are set.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
  10. Whisk together icing ingredients until smooth and adjust consistency as needed.
  11. Dip the cooled cookies in icing or sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 3 hours to maintain shape while baking. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

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