Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies

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There’s something incredibly inviting about a tray of freshly baked cookies. The smell wafting through the kitchen, the anticipation of that first bite, and the joy of sharing them with friends and family are all part of the experience. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home: Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies. These cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. They’re perfect for a sunny afternoon treat, a festive gathering, or just because.

These cookies come together quickly and are sure to impress with their glossy glaze that adds a beautiful finish. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re on the lookout for cookies that stand out from the usual chocolate chip or oatmeal varieties, these Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies are just what you need. The combination of creamy butter and tart lemon creates a luscious flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. The added glaze not only enhances the sweetness but also gives the cookies a stunning appearance that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, they are incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for bakers of any skill level.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tsp. lemon extract
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. baking soda

How To Make Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step, as it helps to incorporate air for a softer cookie.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

Add the lightly beaten eggs, milk, and lemon extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well on low speed until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The batter will have a lovely creamy consistency and a wonderful citrus aroma.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center of the cookies may look a bit underbaked—this is fine, as they will continue to set after being removed from the oven.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

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

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little water and a splash more of lemon extract until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 9: Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each cookie using a spoon or by dipping the tops into the glaze for a more uniform look. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• For extra lemon flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the dough for a vibrant, zesty punch.
• Do not skip cooling the cookies on a wire rack; this prevents them from becoming soggy.
• If you want to control the sweetness of the glaze, start with half the amount of powdered sugar and add more as needed.

Variations and Customizations

• Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
• Incorporate 1 cup of white chocolate chips for a rich, creamy taste that complements the lemon.
• For a berry twist, mix in 1 cup of dried cranberries or blueberries into the dough.
• Experiment with different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, for a unique flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to one week, though you will likely find them gone much sooner! If you want to keep them for an extended period, you can freeze the unglazed cookies for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature and glaze them just before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of flour?

You can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend; however, the texture of the cookies may change slightly. It’s advisable to use a flour that’s suitable for baking to maintain the desired consistency.

What can I use instead of lemon extract?

If you don’t have lemon extract on hand, you can use freshly squeezed lemon juice as a substitute, but keep in mind this may make the dough a little wetter, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

How do I make the cookies more chewy?

To make chewier cookies, reduce the baking time slightly and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a minute longer before transferring them to the wire rack. You could also add an extra egg yolk for a softer texture.

Conclusion

These Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies are a wonderful treat that embodies the spirit of baking—a perfect mix of delighting the senses and sharing joy with loved ones. Their soft, buttery texture combined with the bright flavor of lemon and a sweet glaze makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment with a book or hosting a gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch today; you won’t regret it! Happy baking!