Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Name: Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Brighten your day with these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies, bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a delightful chewy texture. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings, these cookies are a simple and delicious treat that capture the essence of sunny days. Elevate your dessert game with this easy-to-follow recipe that will leave everyone craving more.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-09T08:46:28.300Z

Once upon a sunny day, I discovered the joy of making lemon cookies that not only tasted great but also brought smiles to my friends' faces.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies strike a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness. The subtle tang from fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the cookie's flavor profile, making each bite a refreshing experience. This balance is what sets apart an ordinary cookie from an exceptional treat; it invigorates your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.

The addition of powdered sugar gives these cookies a charming dusting that complements their bright lemon flavor beautifully. Children and adults alike will find joy in the cookie's playful sweetness, proving that a dessert doesn't have to be heavy to be indulgent. This unique flavor dynamic makes them a wonderful choice for any gathering.

Easy to Make, Impossible to Resist

One of the best aspects of these lemon cookies is how easy they are to prepare. In just a handful of steps, you can create a batch that looks and tastes like they came from a bakery. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, you'll gain confidence in the kitchen with this straightforward recipe. The simple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it even more accessible to whip up a fresh batch.

Additionally, the soft and chewy texture is achieved through a perfect balance of fat and flour, making these cookies not only delicious but also gratifying to bake. Your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills, and they'll be clamoring for the recipe before the cookies even cool!

Versatile Treats for Any Occasion

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are incredibly versatile. They can be served at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. Their bright lemon flavor makes them an ideal choice for spring and summer events, while their delightful texture ensures that they’ll please guests of all ages. From casual gatherings to formal occasions, these cookies fit right in.

Moreover, they can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Consider adding poppy seeds for a slightly nutty crunch or drizzling some lemon glaze on top for extra sweetness. No matter how you choose to serve them, these cookies are sure to leave an impression and keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade lemon cookies!

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results, use room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures they blend smoothly with the sugar, creating a light, airy cookie dough. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough when combining the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies. Just mix until everything is incorporated.

Don't forget to chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This little trick helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the chewy texture. You'll be rewarded with cookies that are perfectly puffed and beautifully golden, ready to devour!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor. Placing a piece of bread in the container can also help retain moisture, so the cookies stay soft and chewy longer.

If you want to make ahead, you can freeze the cookie dough. Simply scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to bake, just pop them directly into the oven without thawing—perfect for sudden cravings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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