Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies! Picture this – a burst of zesty lemon flavor combined with the sweet crunch of sugar in every bite. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply craving a sweet treat. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special and why they deserve a spot in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies are a harmonious blend of tangy and sweet flavors, creating a delightful sensory experience with every bite. The bright and refreshing lemon glaze adds a unique twist to the classic sugar cookie, making them a standout treat for citrus lovers. Not only are they incredibly flavorful, but they are also incredibly versatile, suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and nut-free diets.
What sets these cookies apart is their simplicity and elegance – they are easy to make yet look and taste like a gourmet bakery creation. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are sure to impress your taste buds and your guests!
So, if you’re looking for a dessert that is both easy to make and a joy to eat, these Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies are the perfect choice.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of one lemon
For the lemon glaze:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Yellow food coloring (optional)
Optional: Sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out cookies using cookie cutters.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
10. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Add food coloring if desired.
11. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
12. Decorate with sprinkles if desired and let the glaze set before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
– Refrigerating the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
– For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add a bit of lemon extract to the dough.
– If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Variations and Substitutions
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add poppy seeds to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Additionally, you can swap the lemon zest in the glaze for orange or lime zest to create different flavor profiles. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can use a simple vanilla glaze instead of the lemon glaze.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to dessert tables at special events. Pair them with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee for a delightful treat. For a more indulgent experience, serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Q: How should I store the cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The glaze may soften over time, so handle them with care.
Q: Can I freeze the cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked and glazed cookies for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the freshness of lemons with the sweetness of sugar in a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to brighten up their day with a burst of citrusy goodness. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in these irresistible cookies that are sure to bring a smile to your face!
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Delight in the burst of zesty lemon flavor combined with the sweet crunch of sugar in every bite with these Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are a true crowd-pleaser, suitable for various dietary preferences and skill levels.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Yellow food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles for decoration
Directions
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
-
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out cookies using cookie cutters.
-
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
-
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Add food coloring if desired.
-
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
-
Decorate with sprinkles if desired and let the glaze set before serving.
