These Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for citrus lovers and anyone who enjoys soft, tangy cookies with a sweet crunch. With a refreshing lemon flavor and a distinctive crinkle appearance, these cookies are a great addition to any dessert table or afternoon tea spread. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of lemony goodness!
Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Lemon zest: 2 tablespoons, finely grated
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Eggs: 2
- Powdered sugar: For coating
For Garnish (optional):
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Lemon Zest, Juice, and Vanilla
Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Chilling helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.
8. Shape the Cookies
Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out dough and roll each portion into a ball. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until coated evenly.
9. Bake the Cookies
Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked and slightly firm to the touch.
10. Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with additional powdered sugar before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Lemon Zest and Juice
Lemon zest and juice provide the vibrant citrus flavor that makes these cookies stand out. They add a refreshing tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cookie dough and powdered sugar coating.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies, ensuring they have a soft and tender texture. Softened butter is easier to cream with sugar, creating a light and fluffy cookie base.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cookie dough together. They also contribute to the structure and texture of the cookies, ensuring they bake up soft and chewy.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar serves two purposes in this recipe: it sweetens the cookie dough and creates the signature crinkle effect on the baked cookies. Rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking gives them a crackled appearance as they spread and bake in the oven.
Enjoy these Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies with a cup of tea or as a delightful dessert for any occasion. Their bright lemon flavor and soft texture are sure to make them a favorite among friends and family!
