Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

If you’re a fan of citrusy desserts that are both light and tangy, these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are for you! With their delightful burst of lemon flavor, soft and chewy texture, and crackly sugar-coated exterior, these cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing addition to your cookie jar or a unique dessert to impress your guests, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees delicious results every time. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to bake these mouthwatering cookies!

What Are Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a variation of the classic crinkle cookie, known for their distinct appearance with cracks and ridges on the surface. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, these cookies deliver a bold, tangy flavor complemented by a sweet, powdered sugar coating. The dough is chilled before baking to ensure a chewy interior and crispy exterior, resulting in a cookie that is both soft and satisfying with every bite.

Key Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need a few basic pantry ingredients, plus some fresh lemon for that zesty flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and their roles:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Provides the base structure for the cookies.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and create that signature crinkle effect.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies while contributing to their soft texture.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, fresh): Provides the bold lemon flavor; double the amount for a more intense taste.
• Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds concentrated lemon flavor and aroma.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the tartness of the lemon with a hint of sweetness.
• Yellow Food Coloring (5-8 drops, optional): Enhances the color of the cookies for a brighter, more vibrant appearance.
• Rolling Sugars:
  • Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Creates a light, crunchy coating on the outside of the cookies.
  • Powdered Sugar (3/4 cup): Coats the cookies to give them their signature crinkle look.

this RECIPE

How to Make Perfect Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour (2 cups), baking soda (1 teaspoon), and salt (1/4 teaspoon). Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter (1/2 cup, softened) and sugar (1 cup) until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The butter and sugar mixture should be pale in color and have a creamy texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg (1 large), lemon juice (2 tablespoons), lemon zest (1 teaspoon), vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon), and yellow food coloring (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape the Dough

Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking.

Step 8: Roll in Sugars

First, roll each dough ball in the granulated sugar (1/4 cup) to create a thin, crisp coating. Then, generously coat the dough balls in powdered sugar (3/4 cup). This double coating ensures a beautifully crinkled surface as the cookies bake.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center. The edges should be slightly golden.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Crinkle Cookies with a cup of tea or as a delightful snack!

Avoid These Mistakes When Baking Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture and preventing excessive spreading.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be set but still soft in the center to maintain their chewy texture.
• Not Enough Lemon Flavor: If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, double the amount of lemon juice and zest.

Serving Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Serve these cookies on a pretty plate or a cookie tray for a stunning presentation. You can also package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a yellow ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!

How to Store Leftover Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To store leftover Lemon Crinkle Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before enjoying them again.

Creative Twists on Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Lemon-Lavender Cookies: Add a teaspoon of dried lavender for a unique floral flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
• Lemon-White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Mix in some white chocolate chips to add a creamy, sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. The taste may not be as vibrant.

Q: How do I make the cookies more lemony?
A: For a bolder lemon flavor, double the amount of lemon juice and zest in the recipe.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dough can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

conclusion

Now that you have the complete recipe and all the tips, it’s time to get baking! These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are sure to become a family favorite, thanks to their irresistible flavor and texture. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and photos with us in the comments below. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

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