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Glazed Lemon Cookies Recipe

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4.3 from 9 reviews

These Glazed Lemon Cookies are soft, buttery treats infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, finished with a tangy lemon glaze that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon snack, these cookies are easy to make and bring a bright, zesty flavor to your cookie platter.

  • Total Time: 24 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cookies

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup (227g) salted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar plus extra for cookie tops
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
  • 2 1/4 cups (317g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375℉ (191℃) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
  3. Add Flavorings and Egg: Add the egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and vanilla bean paste to the creamed mixture. Beat for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fully combined and creamy.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough is completely combined without overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
  5. Divide and Shape Dough: Divide the dough evenly into 12 portions by scooping. Roll each portion into a ball and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Flatten Dough Balls: Wet the bottom of a glass and dip it in granulated sugar. Press gently on each dough ball to flatten them to about 3 inches in diameter. This helps the cookies bake evenly and develop a beautiful texture.
  7. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes until the cookies are set but not browned. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for 2 minutes.
  8. Cool Cookies: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing, ensuring the glaze sets properly and does not melt.
  9. Prepare Lemon Glaze: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, lemon zest, and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to achieve a slightly runny consistency that will drizzle off a spoon slowly.
  10. Glaze Cookies: Transfer the glaze to a Ziploc or piping bag, cut a small corner off, and drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies in a zigzag pattern. Allow the glaze to set before serving to enjoy the perfect citrusy sweetness.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Press the dough balls gently but not too thin to avoid flat cookies.
  • The glaze should be thick enough to cling but runny enough to drizzle nicely.
  • Store glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter and add a pinch less salt if preferred.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American