Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Name: Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat, bursting with fresh lemon flavor and a chewy texture that is simply irresistible.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:06:39.615Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual get-together or a special celebration. Their zesty flavor and soft texture will have everyone coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor that refreshes your palate
Soft and chewy texture that’s easy to enjoy
Perfect for sharing with friends and family

      

The Perfect Lemon Treat

Lemon cookies are a classic treat that brings a ray of sunshine to any occasion. Their bright flavor and soft, chewy texture make them a crowd-pleaser, whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cup of tea at home. The fresh lemon juice and zest really shine through, providing a refreshing twist that elevates this cookie recipe beyond the ordinary.

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not just delicious; they are incredibly easy to make. Using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and experienced ones looking for a quick and satisfying dessert.

Additionally, the versatility of lemon cookies allows you to customize them to your liking. Consider adding a drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra zing, or mixing in some poppy seeds for added texture. No matter how you choose to make them, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your household.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to measure your flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid using too much, which can lead to dry cookies. Additionally, using room temperature butter helps to create that light and fluffy consistency when creaming it with sugar.

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can also enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies. It allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive dough that spreads less during baking, leading to thicker, chewier cookies.

Always keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, and it's essential to check for that perfect golden edge. Remember, the cookies will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the oven due to residual heat.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for an easy baking experience.

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Butter and Sugar

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

Add Egg and Lemon

Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Blend Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, enjoy your delicious soft and chewy lemon cookies!

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, but we doubt they will last that long once your family gets a taste of them! For extended storage, consider freezing the cookies. Lay them flat in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers, and they can last up to three months.

If you prefer to freeze the dough instead of baked cookies, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon cookies are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Serve them alongside a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make an excellent dessert option for summer picnics or gatherings.

For a fun twist, consider creating a lemon cookie sandwich. Spread a thin layer of lemon buttercream frosting or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a zesty and indulgent treat that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

→ What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use lime juice or any citrus juice, but lemon will give the best flavor.

→ How should I store the 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 cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.