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 zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are bursting with citrus flavor and have a delightful chewy texture that makes them irresistible!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:54:36.071Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their zesty flavor and soft texture will brighten your day!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor
Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are not just a treat; they are a versatile dessert that can brighten any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea, these cookies deliver a refreshing zing that everyone will love. Their bright flavor and inviting aroma are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

The chewy texture of these cookies makes them an ideal choice for sharing. They are easy to pack and transport, making them perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With their delightful lemony taste, they hold their own next to traditional favorites, adding a unique twist that stands out.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with these cookies, it's essential to use room temperature ingredients. Softened butter incorporates more air during mixing, leading to a lighter and fluffier cookie. Additionally, fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the flavor and aroma, so opt for fresh lemons rather than bottled juice to get the most vibrant taste.

Be careful not to overmix the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, which defeats the purpose of that soft and chewy texture you’re aiming for. Instead, mix just until the flour disappears, and you’ll be rewarded with delectable cookies that melt in your mouth.

Storage and Freezing

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, as they taste best when they’re slightly warm and soft.

If you want to prepare these cookies in advance, they freeze beautifully! After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your freshly baked Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies with a glass of milk!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the dough.

Lemon Benefits

Lemons are not only delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. They are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The antioxidants found in lemons can also help combat oxidative stress, making them a great addition to your diet.

In addition to their health benefits, lemons can elevate your mood and improve digestion. Incorporating lemon-flavored treats like these cookies into your diet can bring a refreshing touch to your day while reaping the benefits of this zesty fruit.

Variations to Try

While these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are delightful on their own, there are plenty of variations you can explore to keep things exciting. Consider adding mix-ins like white chocolate chips, poppy seeds, or even a hint of lavender for a unique flavor twist.

For a more indulgent treat, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cookies. This not only adds an extra layer of sweetness but also enhances the lemon flavor, creating a truly irresistible dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Cake flour will make the cookies even softer.

→ How should I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.

→ What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use lime juice or even a splash of orange juice for a different citrus flavor.