Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and zest, offering a delightful treat for any occasion.

Phoebe Turner

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:00:30.329Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and a soft, chewy texture, they are perfect for any dessert table or just as an afternoon snack.

Why You'll Love These Cookies

  • Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that lifts your spirits
  • Soft and chewy texture that makes them irresistible
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavor that can brighten any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, a family reunion, or simply a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Their vibrant lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that sets them apart from traditional cookie recipes.

These cookies also make a thoughtful gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar, and you have a delightful surprise for friends, neighbors, or coworkers. Their cheerful appearance and inviting aroma will surely bring smiles and joy to anyone who receives them.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect soft and chewy texture, be sure to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, so spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Additionally, using room temperature butter helps incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a lighter cookie.

If you're looking to elevate the lemon flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of lemon extract to the dough. This extra boost can enhance the overall taste and aroma, making your cookies even more irresistible.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they are likely to be devoured much sooner! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. This way, you can always have a batch of delicious cookies on hand whenever a craving strikes.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional)

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Mix all ingredients well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Lemon

Beat in the egg, then stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture.

Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Make the Glaze (optional)

While the cookies cool, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cookies

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies if using.

Enjoy your delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies!

Nutrition Information

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies not only taste amazing but can also fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Each cookie provides a delightful burst of flavor alongside essential nutrients from the ingredients. Using simple pantry staples, they can be a better option than store-bought cookies that often contain preservatives.

While it's important to enjoy treats like these in moderation, incorporating them into celebrations can make those moments even sweeter. Remember to balance indulgence with nutritious meals and snacks to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding mix-ins like white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a delightful contrast. These additions can enhance the cookies' taste and texture, making each bite even more interesting. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. With these variations, you can customize the recipe to suit different dietary needs while keeping the essence of these delicious cookies.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give a brighter flavor.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and zest, offering a delightful treat for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Phoebe Turner

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 large egg
  4. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  5. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  6. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  7. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional)

  1. 1 cup powdered sugar
  2. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  3. 1 teaspoon lemon zest

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 03

Beat in the egg, then stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.

Step 04

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture.

Step 05

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 06

While the cookies cool, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 07

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies if using.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g