Easy Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe for Spring Baking

Lemon Sugar Cookies brighten any baking session with zesty citrus aroma and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These Easy Lemon Sugar Cookies roll in sparkling sugar for a sweet crunch, while the lemony dough stays soft inside. Whether you crave Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies or need Quick Lemon Cookie Baking for last-minute treats, this Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe delivers effortless joy. Follow the Lemon Cookie Recipe Instructions below for perfectly uniform, sugar-coated Lemon Cookies Recipes every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright lemon flavor balanced with just the right sweetness in every bite.
• Soft Cookie Recipe texture stays tender for days—no dry edges here.
• Easy Lemon Sugar Cookies come together with simple pantry staples like flour.
• The sugar coating adds delightful sparkle and slight crunch.
• Quick Lemon Cookie Baking makes this ideal for spontaneous cookie cravings.

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened – creates rich, tender cookies
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar – sweetens dough and coating
• 2 large eggs – binds and adds moisture
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest – provides vibrant citrus flavor
• ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice – enhances lemony tang
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour – gives structure without heaviness
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – ensures slight lift and soft crumb
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
• ½ cup extra granulated sugar – for rolling the cookies

Ellie

Lemon Sugar Cookies

Bright, tender cookies with zesty lemon flavor, rolled in sparkling sugar for a slight crunch—perfect for quick baking sessions and sweet citrus indulgence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar (300 g)
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice (60 ml)
• 3 cups all‑purpose flour (360 g)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 cup extra granulated sugar for rolling

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk and elbow grease)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Cooling rack
• Shallow bowl

Method

 

1. Beat softened butter and 1½ cups sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture on low speed until just combined.
4. Cover dough and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up for rolling.
5. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place ½ cup sugar in a shallow bowl.
6. Roll dough into 1‑inch balls, then roll each in sugar to coat. Arrange 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
7. Bake 8–10 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Let cookies rest on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Pro tips: Use finely grated zest to avoid bitterness; chill longer in warm kitchens; substitute 2 Tbsp flour with cornstarch for extra chewiness; rotate sheets halfway for even baking; store in airtight container with a slice of lemon peel to retain aroma.

How to Make the Recipe

These Lemon Sugar Cookies require just a few steps to achieve perfect sweetness and citrus punch.

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and 1½ cups sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Lemon

Mix in eggs one at a time, then add lemon zest and juice until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to butter mixture on low speed.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover dough and chill in fridge for 30 minutes to firm up for rolling.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place ½ cup sugar in a shallow bowl.

Step 6: Shape and Coat

Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each in sugar to coat. Arrange 2 inches apart on sheets.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake 8–10 minutes until edges set but centers are soft. Let cookies rest on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use finely grated zest for more intense lemon flavor without bitterness.
• Chill dough longer if your kitchen is warm to prevent spreading.
• For extra chewiness, replace 2 tablespoons flour with cornstarch.
• Rotate baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
• Store in an airtight container with a slice of lemon to maintain aroma.

How to Serve Lemon Sugar Cookies

These sugar-coated Lemon Sugar Cookies pair beautifully with beverages or as a bright dessert.

• Serve alongside hot tea or coffee for a zesty afternoon break.
• Arrange on a dessert platter with fresh berries for brunch.
• Package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for homemade gifts.
• Offer with a scoop of lemon sorbet for an elegant finish.
• Include in a cookie exchange or summer bake sale lineup.
• Pair with sparkling lemonade for a double lemon treat.
• Use as edible place cards at a spring or summer party.
• Top with a simple lemon glaze for extra shine.
• Stack between layers of whipped cream for a deconstructed shortcake.
• Enjoy solo as a bright, citrusy snack any time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
• Refresh with a quick 5-second microwave zap to regain softness.
• Add a lemon slice to the container to maintain aroma.

Freezing

• Freeze baked cookies in sealed bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
• Freeze dough balls on a tray, then store in bags for fresh-baked cookies anytime.
• No need to thaw dough before baking; add 1 minute to bake time.

Reheating

• Warm cookies in a 300 °F oven for 3–4 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave single cookies for 5–7 seconds to soften instantly.
• Avoid overheating to keep edges tender and centers chewy.
• Serve warm for the best citrus aroma.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of lemon and sugar?

Lemons provide vitamin C and antioxidants to support immunity. Sugar in moderation can boost energy and enhance flavor, making treats more satisfying.

Can I substitute lemon juice?

Yes—use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh juice and zest yield brighter, more authentic flavor.

How can I add flavor without extra calories?

Incorporate vanilla extract, almond extract, or a pinch of ginger for depth without added sugar.

Can I meal prep Lemon Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely—chill dough balls ahead and bake just before serving, or freeze baked cookies for quick treats anytime.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Sugar Cookies are a luminous twist on classic sugar cookies, delivering vibrant citrus zest and tender crumb in every bite. Simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion, these cookies bring a refreshing pop of flavor to your dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a solo snack, this Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe offers effortless joy and bright springtime vibes. Embrace the ease of Quick Lemon Cookie Baking and share these sugar-coated delights with friends and family.

For more other delicious recipes, check out this link !!