Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a burst of citrus flavor with a soft, chewy texture. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you are having a family gathering, a picnic with friends, or simply looking for a fun baking project at home.
Why Make This Recipe
These cookies offer a refreshing taste and a beautiful appearance with their signature cracked surface. They are easy to make, and you likely have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. The zesty lemon flavor is sure to brighten your day, making them a delightful choice for dessert or a snack. Plus, they are fun to roll in powdered sugar, adding a sweet finish to each cookie.
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies is a simple process that anyone can follow. Just gather your ingredients and follow these easy steps to enjoy these tasty treats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each ball thoroughly in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the surfaces have cracked.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be served at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack. They also make an excellent addition to a dessert platter for gatherings and celebrations.
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. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will keep well for up to three months.
Tips to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened so that it mixes well with the sugar.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cookies soft.
- Experiment with the amount of lemon zest for a stronger or milder lemon flavor.
Variation
For a twist, try adding some white chocolate chips or nuts to the dough. You can also replace lemon with another citrus fruit, like orange or lime, for different flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice will give a brighter flavor.
Q: How can I make these cookies thicker?
A: To make thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it into balls and baking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and make a larger batch to share with friends and family.
Enjoy baking these Lemon Crinkle Cookies, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones!
Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each ball thoroughly in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the surfaces have cracked.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
