Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting Recipe
Delight in these zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies that combine a tender, buttery texture with a bright lemon flavor. Perfectly baked until lightly golden with a smooth lemon glaze and a sprinkle of yellow sugar, these cookies offer a refreshing twist on a classic sweet treat, ideal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large whole eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Lemon Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons milk (if necessary)
- Yellow sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350º F (175º C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This creates a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the eggs one at a time along with the lemon zest and lemon juice, beating until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms to avoid overworking.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet and gently press down with your hand or the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly. Bake for 9-10 minutes, until cookies look dry on top and the edges are set.
- Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they set properly and are ready for frosting.
- Prepare Lemon Frosting: Combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add milk by tablespoonfuls to reach the desired consistency.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the lemon frosting evenly over the cooled cookies. Sprinkle with yellow sugar for a decorative and sweet finish. Let the frosting firm up before serving or storing.
Notes
- For sharper lemon flavor, use fresh lemon zest and juice.
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for proper creaming with sugar.
- If frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent cookies from sticking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and use non-dairy milk if needed for frosting consistency.
Keywords: lemon sugar cookies, lemon cookies, lemon frosting cookies, baked lemon cookies, citrus dessert
