Frosted Lemon Cookies

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Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, chewy cookie that bursts with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons. With a delightful buttery base and a sweet, creamy frosting, these Frosted Lemon Cookies are the quintessential treat to brighten your day. Whether you’re hosting a sunny garden party or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to make a lasting impression. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for baking novices and experts alike. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Frosted Lemon Cookies are not just your regular cookies; they offer a refreshing twist that tantalizes the taste buds. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet frosting creates a beautiful balance that is undeniably addictive. Here’s why you should make this recipe:

• Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
• They deliver a mouthwatering flavor that is both refreshing and comforting.
• The soft texture paired with a creamy frosting is irresistibly good.
• They are versatile enough for different occasions, from birthdays to casual get-togethers.
• Baking them fills your home with the delightful aroma of lemon and butter.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• Zest from 1 lemon
• ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice from 1 large lemon
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for the frosting)
• 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (for the frosting)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for the frosting)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for the frosting)

How To Make Frosted Lemon Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for an easy cleanup.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Lemon

Add in the large egg, lemon zest, and fresh squeezed lemon juice. Mix until well combined. The mixture will be smooth and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a burst of lemony goodness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want those cookies to stay tender.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows for room to spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, fresh squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed; you want it spreadable but not too runny.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of the lemon frosting on top of each cookie. Feel free to get creative with the frosting; a knife or an offset spatula works beautifully for spreading.

Expert Tips

To ensure perfect Frosted Lemon Cookies every time, consider these expert tips:

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice lacks the same brightness.
• Make sure your butter is softened, not melted; this will affect the texture of your cookies.
• Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• If you prefer a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some ideas to customize your Frosted Lemon Cookies:

• Add poppy seeds to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Incorporate blueberry or raspberry into the frosting for a berry twist.
• Sprinkle the finished cookies with lemon zest for a decorative touch.
• Drizzle a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice instead of frosting.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Frosted Lemon Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend for any additional binding agents needed.

How do I get a more intense lemon flavor?

For a more vibrant lemon flavor, increase the amount of fresh lemon zest or add a little lemon extract to the cookie dough and frosting.

Can I freeze the unbaked cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer it to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Is it necessary to frost the cookies?

While the cookies are delicious on their own, the frosting adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture. However, you can enjoy them plain if you prefer a lighter treat!

Conclusion

In the world of cookies, Frosted Lemon Cookies stand out with their perfect balance of soft, chewy goodness and refreshing lemony brightness. They are a delightful treat for any occasion and are sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable options, this recipe is a winner in every sense. So grab your ingredients and start baking these delightful cookies today—your taste buds will thank you!