Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that bring a burst of citrus flavor to your dessert table. Their unique texture, combining a soft interior with a slightly crisp, sugary exterior, makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. Easy to make and incredibly refreshing, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a sweet snack. Plus, the bright lemony flavor can lift your spirits and brighten your day!
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, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy (about a couple of minutes).
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer and mix until all ingredients 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 (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop out the dough using a small cookie scoop to get uniform sizes and roll each scoop into a ball. Note: The dough should be scoopable but a bit stiff. If it’s too soft, chill it again in the fridge or freezer for a short time.
- Roll the dough balls in regular sugar first and then coat them generously in powdered sugar. Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. When done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies as a sweet snack or dessert. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for afternoon treats. You can also serve them at gatherings, parties, or family events to impress your guests with their inviting look and citrusy flavor.
How to Store Lemon Crinkle Cookies
To keep your Lemon Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if freezing!
Tips to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Chilling the dough is key! It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- For extra zesty flavor, you can add more lemon zest.
- Make sure to roll the cookies well in powdered sugar for that signature crinkle effect.
Variation
You can try adding other flavors like lime or orange zest for a twist on the traditional lemon flavor. Additionally, incorporating white chocolate chips can create a delicious contrast against the lemon.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice gives a brighter and fresher taste.
2. Why do my cookies spread too much?
If the dough is too soft before baking or if you skip chilling it, the cookies may spread too much. Make sure to chill the dough well.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them until solid, then store them in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
