Name: Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup powdered sugar; 5 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; A few drops vanilla extract (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Lemon Sugar Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy, with a soft center and lightly crisp edges. If you love bright, fresh flavors, this recipe delivers tender, chewy cookies topped with a silky lemon glaze. These cookies come together quickly and bake in minutes, which makes them ideal for spring gatherings, summer parties, or an easy weekend treat. With fresh lemon juice and lemon zest in every bite, these homemade cookies stand out among classic lemon recipes.

Story

Every year when spring arrives, I start craving lighter desserts that feel fresh but still satisfy a sweet tooth. That is exactly when Lemon Sugar Cookies move to the top of my baking list. They bake quickly, stay incredibly soft, and fill the kitchen with a bright citrus aroma that signals warmer days ahead.

I first made Lemon Sugar Cookies for a family brunch, and they disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table. Since then, I have perfected this recipe to create the ideal texture: soft cookies with just the right chew. The fresh lemon juice gives them a clean, vibrant flavor, while the lemon zest intensifies that citrus punch.

Unlike heavy desserts, Lemon Sugar Cookies feel light yet indulgent. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of iced lemonade. Because the dough mixes in minutes and bakes in just seven, you can enjoy fresh, chewy cookies without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

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

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
5 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
A few drops vanilla extract (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and well combined. Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until fully incorporated.

Then, stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Combine until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

Cooking Instructions

Use a one-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls. Place them about 1.5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 7 minutes. The cookies should look slightly set on the edges but still soft in the center.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While the cookies cool, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking powdered sugar with lemon juice and optional vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a few extra drops of lemon juice or water if needed. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set completely before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overbake these Lemon Sugar Cookies. Because they bake quickly, even one extra minute can reduce their soft texture. Also, measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour leads to dry cookies instead of tender, chewy cookies.

In addition, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled juice. Fresh citrus provides a brighter flavor that defines this spring dessert.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For an even stronger lemon flavor, add a pinch of extra lemon zest to the dough. You can also chill the dough for 20 minutes if you prefer slightly thicker soft cookies. If you enjoy a glossy finish, double the lemon glaze and let it drip naturally over the tops for bakery-style presentation.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve these Lemon Sugar Cookies once the glaze sets completely. They shine as a spring dessert, but they also fit perfectly into summer picnics or holiday cookie trays. Pair them with tea, coffee, or fresh berries for a light dessert spread. Their bright flavor makes them one of the most refreshing lemon recipes to serve at gatherings.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. When baking from frozen, simply add one to two extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These Lemon Sugar Cookies deliver everything you want in a citrus dessert: soft centers, lightly crisp edges, and a sweet-tart lemon glaze. They mix quickly, bake in minutes, and bring a burst of fresh flavor to any table. If you enjoy homemade lemon recipes, this one will become a seasonal favorite you bake again and again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Lemon Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. You can also freeze the dough balls for longer storage and bake them when needed.

Why are my cookies not chewy?

Overbaking usually causes dry texture. Remove the cookies when the centers still look slightly soft. They continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I skip the lemon glaze?

You can serve the cookies plain if you prefer a lighter sweetness. However, the lemon glaze adds extra citrus flavor and enhances the overall texture and appearance.