Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tbsp lemon zest; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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These Soft Lemon Glazed Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, featuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a refreshing citrus glaze. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, they offer a bright and delightful flavor, making them an excellent treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delightfully soft texture – These cookies have a light and airy consistency that melts in your mouth.
Bright lemon flavor – Fresh lemon juice and zest create a refreshing citrus taste.
Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples, these cookies are easy to prepare.
Perfect for any occasion – Whether for tea time, a holiday gathering, or a quick dessert, these cookies fit any setting.
Easy to store and reheat – They stay fresh for days and can be easily refreshed if needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar

Directions

Prepare the dough: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the eggs, followed by the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
Chill the dough: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Shape the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared sheet.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Glaze the cookies: Drizzle or dip each cookie in the glaze, then let them set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add a citrus twist: Substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor.
Make them dairy-free: Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter.
Enhance the glaze: Add a pinch of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle crushed almonds or coconut flakes over the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If desired, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Why did my cookies turn out dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze enhances the lemon flavor and adds sweetness.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version.

How long does the glaze take to set?

The glaze typically sets within 15-20 minutes.

Can I add poppy seeds to the cookies?

Yes, adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds can add texture and a subtle flavor.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, substitute each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture.

Conclusion

Soft Lemon Glazed Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy tang. Easy to prepare and versatile, these cookies are ideal for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh or store them for later, their refreshing lemon flavor is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a burst of sunshine in every bite!

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These Soft Lemon Glazed Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats bursting with citrus flavor. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, they’re perfect for any sweet craving.