Lemon Frosted Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe for a Zesty Treat

Lemon Frosted Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness and tanginess, making them an irresistible addition to any dessert table. As I take a bite of these soft, chewy cookies topped with a zesty lemon glaze, I am transported to sunny days and warm gatherings. The history of lemon-flavored desserts dates back centuries, with citrus fruits being a staple in many cultures for their refreshing taste and vibrant aroma. People adore Lemon Frosted Cookies not only for their bright flavor but also for their delightful texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your day.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for frosting)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for frosting)
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for consistency)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, I start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a light cookie.
2. In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. I mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Next, I add in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. I continue to mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. I make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
5. Once the dough is ready, I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Baking the Cookies

1. Preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). I line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. After the dough has chilled, I use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. I leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
3. I gently flatten each cookie with the palm of my hand, just a little, to help them bake evenly.
4. Now, I pop the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
5. Once baked, I remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Lemon Frosting

1. While the cookies are cooling, I prepare the lemon frosting. In a medium bowl, I sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps.
2. I then add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the powdered sugar. Using a whisk, I mix until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, I add a tablespoon of milk to reach my desired consistency.
3. Once the cookies are completely cool, I’m ready to frost them. I use a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie.
4. For a decorative touch, I sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top of the frosted cookies.

Storing the Cookies

1. After frosting, I let the cookies sit for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set slightly.
2. To store the cookies, I place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If I want to keep them longer, I can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Enjoying the Cookies

1. When I’m ready to enjoy these delightful lemon frosted cookies, I simply take them out of the container and serve them with a cup of tea or coffee. The bright lemon flavor is refreshing and perfect for any occasion!

Conclusion:

In summary, these Lemon Frosted Cookies are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add a burst of citrusy delight to their dessert repertoire. The combination of zesty lemon flavor and sweet, creamy frosting creates a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual get-together, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delightful cookies with a refreshing cup of iced tea or lemonade for a truly summery experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or incorporating a hint of lavender for a floral twist. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative! I genuinely hope you give this Lemon Frosted Cookies recipe a try. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your delicious creations. Let’s spread the joy of baking together! Happy baking!

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