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Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe

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4.2 from 86 reviews

These Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies are soft, tender, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. With a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zest, they feature crackled tops and a delightful chewy texture that makes them irresistible. Ideal for springtime gatherings or any time you crave a tangy, sweet treat.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 28 minutes
  • Yield: 22 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
  • yellow gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to keep dry ingredients combined evenly.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer with a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar and softened butter on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Wet Flavorings: Reduce mixer speed to low and add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, optional lemon extract, and optional yellow gel food coloring. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Keep the mixer on low and gradually add the dry ingredients about 1/3 to 1/2 cup at a time. Mix just until the dough is smooth and uniform in texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie.
  5. Chill Dough: Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours, or up to overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar into a shallow bowl for coating.
  7. Form Cookies: Remove dough from the refrigerator. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Drop the ball into the granulated sugar and toss to coat evenly. Arrange the sugar-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes or until you see crackled tops forming. If using two baking sheets simultaneously, rotate the sheets halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
  9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
  10. Serve: Enjoy the cookies as desired once fully cooled. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough helps develop flavor and improves the cookie texture.
  • Using lemon zest and juice freshens up the cookies with natural citrus aroma.
  • Optional lemon extract and yellow food coloring enhance both flavor and appearance but can be omitted.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for best freshness.
  • For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to finish firming up on the baking sheet.
  • Pair these cookies with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/chewy-lemon-sugar-cookies-recipe/