Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for sharing. Their soft texture and sweet, tangy flavor make them irresistible. These cookies look lovely with their dusting of powdered sugar, too. They’re not just tasty but also easy to make, even for beginners.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will adore these Lemon Crinkle Cookies for their fresh lemon taste and simple preparation. They are soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Plus, they bring a little bit of sunshine to any occasion. They are a great fit for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. With just a few ingredients, you can create a batch that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies is straightforward and fun. You will mix wet and dry ingredients, chill the dough, then bake. It’s all about the joy of baking without needing complicated steps. Just follow along, and you’ll create soft, sweet cookies to share with others.

What You Need

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)
1/4 cup sugar (for rolling)
3/4 cup powdered sugar (also called icing sugar)

Step-by-Step

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy for a few minutes.
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring if using. Mix to combine.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer and mix until everything is well blended. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop out the dough using a small cookie scoop. Roll it into a ball. If the dough feels too soft, place it back in the fridge for a bit.
Roll each ball in regular sugar, then in powdered sugar until well-coated. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Enjoy these cookies any time! They can be paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They are ideal for birthday parties, picnics, or simply as an afternoon snack. Serve them alongside fresh fruit for a lovely dessert platter. They also make great gifts when packed nicely in a box.

How to Store Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container. They will stay good at room temperature for about a week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet for a few minutes in a 350°F oven.

Recipe Tips

Be sure to chill the dough; this helps prevent spreading.
For a zestier flavor, add more lemon zest.
If you want a pop of color, use food coloring.
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it’s easier to handle.

Variations & Swaps

Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different twist.
Use coconut sugar instead of regular sugar for a healthier option.
For a nutty flavor, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough.
Try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds for a fun texture.
Make them gluten-free using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and chill it for up to 3 days in the fridge before baking.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat the cookies?
Just warm them in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their softness.

What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

How do I avoid flat cookies?
Ensure your dough is well chilled and not overly soft before baking to maintain their shape.