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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cool Cookies: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing, ensuring the glaze sets properly and does not melt.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American