Why make this recipe

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your dessert table. They are soft, chewy, and have a lovely cracked appearance that makes them visually appealing. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea or a dessert to impress your guests, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest adds brightness to the cookies, making them refreshing and enjoyable. Plus, they’re easy to make!

How to make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter (softened)
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
5-8 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
1/4 cup sugar (for rolling)
3/4 cup powdered sugar (aka icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

Directions:

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy, for about a couple of minutes.
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using) to the mixture and mix to combine.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer and mix until well incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to set for 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop out the dough (using a small cookie scoop for uniform size) and roll it into a ball. Note: The dough should be scoopable but a bit stiff. If it’s too soft, place it back in the fridge or freezer for a short time, as soft dough can spread too much while baking.
Roll the dough balls first in regular sugar and then in powdered sugar, making sure to coat them generously.
Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

How to serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

You can serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies plain or dress them up with a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra sweetness. They pair nicely with a cup of tea or coffee and are great for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Enjoy them fresh or serve them alongside fresh fruit for a light dessert.

How to store Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To store Lemon Crinkle Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week if stored properly. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers and they will last for up to 2-3 months.

Tips to make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies keep their shape and enhances the flavor.
If you like a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a bit more lemon zest or juice.
Make sure to roll the dough balls well in powdered sugar for that classic crinkle effect.

Variation

You can try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds for a fun texture or mix in some white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Another option is to replace the lemon with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

2. What if I don’t have lemon zest?
While lemon zest adds a bright flavor, you can omit it. You can also replace it with a bit of lemon extract if you have that on hand.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should look slightly puffed and set, with a light golden color on the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.