Glazed Lemon Cookies

Glazed lemon cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with bright, tangy lemon flavor. Topped with a sweet and zesty lemon glaze, these cookies are perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you crave a refreshing treat. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties, afternoon tea, or a quick dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and tangy lemon flavor in every bite.
• Soft and tender cookies with a sweet, glossy glaze.
• Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a cup of tea.
• Customizable for extra lemony goodness or other citrus variations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

For the Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Lemon:
   • Mix in the egg, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape and Bake:
   • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
6. Cool the Cookies:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more juice (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
8. Glaze the Cookies:
   • Spoon or drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes.
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes.

Variations

• Extra Lemony: Add more lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract to the dough for an even brighter flavor.
• Citrus Medley: Use a mix of lemon, orange, and lime zest for a citrus twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Decorative Glaze: Add a drop of yellow food coloring to the glaze for a vibrant look.
• Poppyseed Lemon Cookies: Mix in a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
• Reheating: These cookies are best served at room temperature and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to ¼ teaspoon.

Why is my glaze too runny?

Add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free version.

Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

Yes, try a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground ginger for extra depth.

How do I make thicker cookies?

Roll the dough slightly thicker and reduce the flattening step before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily for a larger batch.

Are these cookies freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze unglazed cookies and glaze them after thawing for the best texture.

What pairs well with lemon cookies?

Serve with tea, coffee, or a light dessert wine for a perfect pairing.

Conclusion

Glazed lemon cookies are a delightful treat that combines a soft, buttery texture with a bright and zesty flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or just to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to please. Try them today and savor the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus!

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