Why make this recipe

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your day. Their unique crinkled appearance and zesty flavor make them a favorite for many. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just to enjoy a sweet treat at home. With their soft texture and sweet-tart taste, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

How to make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter (softened)
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
5-8 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
1/4 cup sugar (for rolling)
3/4 cup powdered sugar (aka icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

Directions:

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy, about a couple of minutes.
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using) to the bowl and mix to combine.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer and mix until they are incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to set for 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop out the dough (a small cookie scoop works great for getting a uniform size) and roll the dough into a ball. Note: the dough should be scoopable but a bit stiff. If it feels too soft, put it back in the fridge or freezer for a bit. A dough that is too soft will spread more when baking.
Roll the dough balls in regular sugar first, then in the powdered sugar, making sure to coat them generously. Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Remove them from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

How to serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

You can serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies as they are, or add a scoop of ice cream on top for a special treat. They pair well with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. These cookies also make a lovely addition to any dessert platter.

How to store Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for about 5-7 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can last up to three months.

Tips to make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add extra lemon zest or juice.
If you want a more vibrant color, use more yellow food coloring.
Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Variation

You can add white chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. For a different twist, try using lime or orange instead of lemon for a variety of flavors.

FAQs

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to cook a bit after you take them out.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

3. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to work with, try chilling it for a bit longer in the fridge. This will help it firm up.