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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zest, creating a delightful treat for any occasion.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:40:56.037Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a family favorite, bringing a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. With their soft texture and bright flavor, they're perfect for any gathering.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that refreshes your palate
Soft, chewy texture that makes each bite a delight
Easy to make, perfect for baking with kids or for a quick treat

      

A Burst of Citrus Goodness

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not just any ordinary cookie; they bring a refreshing twist to your dessert table. The bright and zesty flavor of lemon cuts through the sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience. These cookies are perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tart, and they are sure to impress guests at parties or gatherings.

The addition of lemon zest enhances the cookie's flavor profile, providing an aromatic quality that elevates the overall taste. With every nibble, you’ll enjoy the citrus notes lingering on your palate, making these cookies a satisfying treat that feels light and refreshing.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a summer picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their vibrant flavor and soft texture make them a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great choice for last-minute gatherings.

Baking with kids? This recipe is simple enough for little hands to help out. Let them scoop the dough and drizzle the lemon glaze, turning a baking session into a fun family activity. These cookies also make wonderful gifts when packaged in a beautiful box or tin, sharing the joy of homemade treats with friends and loved ones.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies turn out perfectly every time, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale for the flour can help achieve the right consistency. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step for the dough if you have time; it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.

When baking, keep an eye on the cookies as they approach the 10-minute mark. Every oven is different, and you want to catch them just as the edges turn golden while the centers remain soft. This method will give you the ideal chewy texture that everyone loves.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Mix the ingredients well and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Enjoy your delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies!

Storing Your Cookies

Once you've baked your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies, it's essential to store them correctly to maintain their freshness. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, consider placing a slice of bread in the container to help absorb moisture and keep the cookies soft.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.

Variations to Try

While the classic Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookie is delightful on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to customize your cookies. Consider adding white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the lemon's tartness. Alternatively, incorporating poppy seeds adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your cookies.

If you prefer a more intense flavor, experiment with different citrus fruits. Lime or orange juice and zest can be substituted for lemon, creating a unique twist on this beloved recipe. Each variation brings its own character, allowing you to enjoy these cookies in new and exciting ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Yes, you can substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a different flavor.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I do if my cookies spread too much?

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.