Lemon Thins

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Lemon Thins are crisp, buttery cookies infused with a bright lemon flavor, thanks to lemon jello. Perfect for lemon lovers, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus tang. These cookies are ideal for teatime, holidays, or anytime you crave a light, refreshing treat.

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Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 cups butter or margarine
  • 1 package lemon jello (3 oz.)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Sift together the flour and baking powder.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the lemon jello and continue creaming well.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla until combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
  6. Drop by spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
  7. Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes or until edges are golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, make sure to cream the butter and sugar well until fluffy. If you don't have lemon jello, you can substitute with lemon extract, using about 1 tablespoon instead. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor, especially if using unsalted butter. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. For a unique twist, consider folding in some finely chopped nuts or white chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon thins are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a fruit salad or can be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a brunch option, serve them with the Cheese Strada for a tasty spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover lemon thins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their freshness, or microwave briefly until just warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Thins contains roughly 1062 calories, with 16g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 727mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

1062 kcal 53% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.8g 32% DV
Total Fat 14.8g 19% DV
Carbs 190.1g 69% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 6.4g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 727.4mg 32% DV
Potassium 1221.6mg 26% DV
Cholesterol 545.6mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 132.3mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Calcium 559.6mg 43% DV
Iron 4.8mg 27% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different flavor of jello?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello. However, be mindful that the taste and color of the cookies will change accordingly. For instance, raspberry or lime could provide a fun twist. Just ensure that the jello is a similar consistency to lemon for best results.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, lightly flour your hands and the spoon you use for dropping the dough to minimize sticking. Just be careful not to add too much flour, as it can change the texture of the cookies.

How can I make these cookies more visually appealing?

To enhance the visual appeal, consider drizzling a simple glaze over the cooled cookies made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. Additionally, sprinkling some lemon zest on top before baking can add a nice touch. You can also decorate with colorful sprinkles to make them festive for occasions.

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).

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