Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor. Every bite takes me back to sunny days and warm memories. Whether you are a lemon lover or just looking for a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to delight.
Why Lemon Crinkle Cookies?
Lemon crinkle cookies are not just any cookies. They have a unique texture that is slightly crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside. The crinkles come from rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking, giving them a beautiful appearance. Plus, the refreshing taste of lemon makes them perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
To make these delightful cookies, you will need some simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Lemon Crinkle Cookies Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Making these cookies is simple and fun. I remember the first time I made them. My kitchen was filled with the sweet smell of lemon, and I couldn’t wait to taste them. Here’s how to make them:
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavor: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Roll in Sugar: After chilling, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Making the perfect lemon crinkle cookies is all about technique. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop the flavors.
- Roll Generously in Sugar: Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar. A generous coating gives the cookies that signature crinkle look and adds sweetness.
Storing Lemon Crinkle Cookies
If you have any cookies left (though I doubt it), storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh. Here’s how I do it:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Variations of Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
While the classic lemon crinkle cookie is delightful, there are a few variations you can try. Here are some ideas:
- Lemon Blueberry Crinkle Cookies: Add fresh blueberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
- Lemon Coconut Crinkle Cookies: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Lemon Lavender Crinkle Cookies: Incorporate culinary lavender for a unique floral hint.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect on their own, but I love to serve them with a few extras:
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee pairs wonderfully with the bright flavor of lemon.
- Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delicious treat.
- Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing dessert option.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Lemon crinkle cookies hold a special place in my heart. They remind me of sunny days and family gatherings. The bright flavor and soft texture make them irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Baking these cookies is not just about the end result; it’s about the experience. From mixing the dough to rolling them in powdered sugar, each step brings joy. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these lemon crinkle cookies as much as I do. They are a delightful treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face.