There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, especially when they are soft and chewy lemon cookies. These little morsels are like sunshine on a plate—bright, cheerful, and utterly irresistible. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that melts in your mouth, bursting with zesty lemon flavor and a hint of sweetness!
Baking these delightful treats is more than just a recipe; it’s a memorable experience. Picture this: a cozy afternoon spent mixing, rolling, and laughing with family or friends, while anticipation builds as the buttery aroma fills your home. Whether it’s for a sunny picnic, an afternoon treat, or a sweet surprise for someone special, these soft and chewy lemon cookies are sure to make any moment brighter.
Why You'll Love This Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
- This amazing Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies:
12 tbsp unsalted butter – Softened butter creates a rich, creamy texture that’s essential for these cookies.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – This sugar sweetens the cookies while helping them achieve that soft, tender crumb.
1 tbsp lemon zest – Zest from fresh lemons packs a punch of citrusy flavor, whisks you to summer with every bite.
1 large egg – Using a room temperature egg emulsifies the batter smoothly for a fluffy texture.
1 large egg yolk – The yolk adds richness and moisture, making these cookies even more decadent.
2 tsp lemon extract – This boost of lemon flavor helps intensify the citrusy goodness in your cookies.
3 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for stability, flour balances the cookie’s texture, keeping it soft yet structured.
1 tsp baking soda – This helps the cookies rise and maintain their chewy texture.
1 tsp cornstarch – A secret weapon for achieving a super soft and chewy texture.
¾ tsp salt – A pinch enhances all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
2 tbsp lemon juice – Freshly squeezed, it adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.
¼ cup granulated sugar – For rolling and garnishing, this sugar adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness on top.
How to Make Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins, creating those beautiful air pockets that help make your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the room temperature egg, egg yolk, and lemon extract. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring each ingredient has blended seamlessly into a velvety batter.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, combining on low speed. Don’t overmix; the key to those soft and chewy lemon cookies is to keep the dough fluffy and light.
Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Juice
Now comes the lemon juice! Pour it on top of the baking soda in the dough mixture. You’ll see some fizzing action—this is the science of baking magic in motion! Gently fold to combine until just mixed and set aside for a little chilling time.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 1 hour. This is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and produces that chewy goodness we’re after.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Roll the chilled dough into balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet, giving them plenty of room. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them to maintain that signature chewy texture.
Once out of the oven, allow them to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. For that extra touch, sprinkle with a bit more granulated sugar and lemon zest to brighten their appearance.
These soft and chewy lemon cookies not only taste fabulous, but they also bring a burst of cheer to any occasion. Serve them at your next family gathering, pack them for a picnic, or simply enjoy them with a cup of tea while lounging at home. Trust me, they will vanish faster than you can say “lemon zest!”
Now that you have the keys to making these delightful cookies, enjoy each bite and the joy they bring to your friends and family! Happy baking!
This amazing Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies offer more than just flavor; they make meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make them visually stunning on any dessert table, proving perfect for gatherings and personal indulgence alike.
Perfecting Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies Cooking Process
Start by beating the butter, sugar, and lemon zest until fluffy. Once your wet ingredients shine, gently add the dry ones to keep the cookies tender. Don’t forget to chill the dough; it’s essential for that delectable texture!
Add Your Touch to Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Feel free to swap out the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Add chocolate chips for a fun twist, or mix in dried cranberries for a tangy kick! Let your creativity soar.
Storing & Reheating Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or bake them for a couple of minutes at a low temperature to revive their chewiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
- This amazing Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies offer more than just flavor; they make meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dessert table, proving perfect for gatherings and personal indulgence alike.
Sometimes, sharing this delicious treat sparked joy in my friends, who would ask for the recipe. It was always a hit at potlucks; sweet, tangy goodness wrapped up in one perfect cookie!
FAQs About Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
What are Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies?
Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are delightful baked treats that blend sweet and citrusy flavors into a soft, tender texture. They feature a buttery base mixed with refreshing lemon zest and juice, creating a vibrant taste. Ideal for any gathering or a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies bring together the best of both worlds: the comforting classic cookie vibes with a zesty twist. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, they are a true delight for lemon lovers everywhere.
How do you store Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies?
To keep your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will ensure they remain soft and chewy for up to a week. If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing the dough or baked cookies in a zip-top bag. Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their delightful texture and taste.
Can I customize Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies?
Absolutely! Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are highly adaptable. You can swap out granulated sugar for brown sugar to enhance that chewy factor. Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips for a sweet contrast or dried cranberries for a tangy twist. You can also play with the lemon flavor by adjusting the zest and juice to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
How long does it take to make Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies?
Making Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies is a straightforward process. With a prep time of about 10 minutes, and cook time around 10 to 12 minutes, you will have these delicious cookies ready in about an hour and twenty minutes, including chilling time. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those spontaneous sweet cravings or when you’re looking to impress guests with a homemade treat in no time!
Conclusion for Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
In summary, Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect balance of sweetness and zesty flavor, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Customize them to your liking or enjoy them as-is. Whether shared with friends or savored on your own, these cookies are bound to brighten anyone’s day. Don’t hesitate to make these delicious cookies a staple in your baking repertoire!
Delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies Recipe for Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat the butter, sugar, and lemon zest in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment for about 3-4 minutes or until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and extract(s), mix again.
- Add the dry ingredients in a mound with baking soda on top.
- Add the lemon juice on top of the baking soda and mix just until combined. Do not over mix.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar.
- Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and place about 6-8 cookies at a time on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.
- Allow to rest on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Sprinkle the tops of cookies with more granulated sugar and lemon zest if desired.
