lemon cake cookies

 

Introduction

If you're in search of a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, look no further than lemon cake cookies. These cookies are not only easy to make but also bursting with refreshing lemon flavor. Ideal for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant tea parties, lemon cake cookies will surely impress your guests and family alike. Join us as we explore everything you need to know about making these delightful cookies from scratch!

What are Lemon Cake Cookies?

Lemon cake cookies are a delicious fusion of traditional cake and cookie textures. They are soft, chewy, and packed with zesty lemon flavor, reminiscent of a moist lemon cake. The addition of a light lemon glaze or dusting of powdered sugar elevates these cookies, making them a perfect treat for lemon lovers. These cookies are often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, but they can also be served as a delightful dessert after any meal.

Ingredients

To make the best lemon cake cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Kitchen Tools

Before we start baking, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Zester or grater
• Juicer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making lemon cake cookies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of each cookie using a fork or a piping bag. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure your lemon cake cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips and common mistakes to avoid:

• Measure Accurately: Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough (optional): If your dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
• Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to prevent overbaking.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your lemon cake cookies! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Lemon Blueberry Cookies: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Mix in poppy seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Coconut Lemon Cookies: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical touch.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon cake cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert.
• Package them in a decorative box as a thoughtful gift for friends or family.
• Enjoy them as a sweet treat at picnics or outdoor gatherings.

Storage Instructions

To keep your lemon cake cookies fresh, follow these storage instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer shelf life, store cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fiber: 0.5g

FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for later enjoyment.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies will be lightly golden around the edges and will look slightly underbaked in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Lemon cake cookies are a delightful treat that brings the bright flavor of lemons into a soft, chewy cookie form. With a simple recipe and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy these delicious cookies any time of the year. Whether you savor them with a warm beverage or share them with loved ones, lemon cake cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of these refreshing cookies!