Lemon Sugar Cookies
These Lemon Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat with a bright citrus flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. With a soft and chewy texture, they are ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Perfect for lemon lovers and cookie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Heat oven to 400°.
- Work shortening in a bowl until creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until well blended.
- Add egg; beat thoroughly.
- Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with lemon juice to the creamed mixture.
- Beat until smooth.
- Cover and chill for 1 hour.
- Roll a small portion of dough at a time on a lightly floured board to a thickness of about 1/4-inch.
- Keep the rest of the dough refrigerated.
- Cut with a 2-inch cookie cutter.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are lightly browned.
- Cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some lemon zest along with the lemon juice. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. Ensure your dough is chilled well before rolling to prevent sticking. Also, be mindful of your baking time to achieve that perfect lightly browned edge.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon sugar cookies are delightful on their own or can be served alongside a cup of tea for a refreshing treat. For a fun twist, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a Banana Strawberry Smoothie for a delicious dessert combo. They also make a lovely addition to any cookie platter during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Sugar Cookies contains roughly 1508 calories, with 17g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2783mg per serving (121% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, the taste may be slightly less vibrant. Look for a high-quality brand with no added preservatives for better results.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough becomes sticky while rolling, simply dust your work surface and rolling pin with a little extra flour. This will help prevent sticking. If the dough is still too soft, return it to the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes to firm up before rolling again.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Cookies are typically done when the edges are lightly browned and the centers look set but may still appear slightly soft. Keep an eye on them while they bake, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want to avoid over-baking for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).