Go Back
The Best Lemon Cookies Recipe

The Best Lemon Cookies Recipe

These lemon cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. They’re easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and perfect for tea time, parties, or a quick sweet treat. The zesty lemon aroma alone will make your kitchen smell amazing. If you love bright, refreshing desserts, this recipe is a must-try.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 18 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup powdered sugar for rolling optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract and mix well.
  4. In another bowl whisk flour, baking soda, and salt together.
  5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to form dough.
  6. Scoop dough into small balls and roll in powdered sugar if desired.
  7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet with space between each.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  9. Let cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring to a rack.

Notes

Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor.
Do not overbake if you want soft cookies.
Chilling the dough for 20 minutes can improve texture.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?
If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made:-):