Lemon Crinkle Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your day, these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are just the thing! They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with sunny lemon flavor—perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of tea. There’s something special about the way the tartness of fresh lemon juice contrasts with the sweetness of sugar, making every bite feel like a little moment of joy. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip up these cookies in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a good cookie, and these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: From afternoon tea to holiday gatherings, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready for fresh cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Let’s gather what we need to make these delicious Lemon Crinkle Cookies.

For the Cookies:

• 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)

For Coating:

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (aka icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon into the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mix in chocolate: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet twist on the classic lemon flavor.
• Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a unique citrus crinkle cookie experience.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agent throughout the flour. Setting this mixture aside allows you to focus on creaming your butter and sugar next!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy—this should take just a couple of minutes. This process creates tiny air pockets that help make your cookies light and tender. Afterward, add in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring if you’re using it. Mix until everything is nicely combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Mixing until just incorporated is key here; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies. Once everything is blended, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This helps firm up the dough so it holds its shape while baking.

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Lining your sheets ensures that your cookies won’t stick—who wants crumbled cookies when they could be perfect?

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop (or just your hands), scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. If your dough feels too soft at any point, pop it back in the fridge or freezer for a short while—it’s important that they hold their shape while baking!

Step 6: Coat Your Dough Balls

Roll each ball first in regular sugar and then generously in powdered sugar. This double coating gives them that classic crinkle effect while also adding sweetness.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Place your coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes until they’re set but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies—they’re sure to bring a smile!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Baking these delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies can be a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure perfection every time!

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours helps the flavors meld and results in a better texture. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, giving you those beautiful crinkles.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice and zest. The bright, citrusy flavor will shine through your cookies, making them taste incredibly vibrant compared to using bottled lemon juice.
• Measure Flour Correctly: For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make your cookies dry and dense.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or edible flowers on top of the cookies before serving for an extra touch of elegance!

How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are not only delightful to eat but also make a beautiful addition to any gathering or tea party. Here are some ideas on how to present and serve them:

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top adds a pop of color and enhances that zesty flavor.
• Edible Flowers: Small edible flowers like pansies or violets can make your cookie display visually stunning and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea pairs wonderfully with these cookies, balancing their sweetness with calming flavors like chamomile or mint.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the lemony brightness of the cookies beautifully.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt, granola, and fresh berries creates a delicious contrast to the sweet cookies, making for an indulgent yet light dessert option.
• Cheese Platter: Offering a small cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese provides an interesting savory contrast that enhances the overall experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these lovely Lemon Crinkle Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavor fresh or later in the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can make a batch ahead of time and have sweet treats ready to brighten your day!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• To maintain their softness, place a slice of bread in the container.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Enjoy while they’re still slightly warm for that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Crinkle Cookies!

Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice in Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute lemon extract for lemon juice. Use about 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for every tablespoon of lemon juice. However, using fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor.

How do I prevent my Lemon Crinkle Cookies from flattening?

To prevent flattening, ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking. If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it again for a bit longer. This helps maintain the cookie’s shape during baking.

What can I use instead of eggs in Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

You can replace one egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Both options work nicely to bind the ingredients together.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies! Their bright flavor and chewy texture make them the perfect companion for tea time or as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself! Happy baking!