Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Name: Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are bursting with citrus flavor and have a delightful texture that will keep you coming back for more.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-23T02:00:44.281Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to brighten your day!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
Soft and chewy texture that is simply irresistible
Easy to make, perfect for baking with kids or friends

      

The Perfect Lemon Treat

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies shine with their bright citrus flavor. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that is both uplifting and satisfying. Plus, their soft and chewy texture makes them an excellent choice for cookie lovers of all ages.

What sets these cookies apart is not just their delightful taste but also their ease of preparation. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a batch of these delicious cookies. They are a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen, fostering a love for baking while making lasting memories together.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you've baked these delightful cookies, you'll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a taste of summer whenever you desire!

These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a cup of tea or lemonade for a refreshing afternoon snack. For a more festive touch, consider garnishing them with extra lemon zest or pairing them with a citrus-flavored glaze. There’s no limit to the ways you can enjoy these soft, chewy treats!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Mix well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Flavorings

Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Enjoy your delicious lemon cookies!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture in your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This allows for the ideal creaming process with sugar, which is crucial for light and fluffy cookies. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will keep your cookies tender.

Using fresh lemons for zest and juice will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. Store-bought lemon juice lacks the vibrant taste that fresh lemons provide, making it worth the extra effort. Zest the lemons first before juicing for maximum efficiency and flavor.

Flavor Variations

While these cookies are delicious as they are, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or incorporating white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the lemon flavor. For a more tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut or even a hint of ginger to the dough.

If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest or juice slightly. Just be cautious with the liquid amount to maintain the dough's consistency. These small adjustments can create a personalized cookie that showcases your unique taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.