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A tray of soft, golden lemon sugar cookies coated in sparkly lemon zest sugar

Ultimate Lemon Sugar Cookies

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 24 servings
Calories 165 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/4 cups all -purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sal t
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (for dough)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
  • 1 large egg , room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • Prepare the lemon sugar by combining 1/3 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon of the lemon zest in a small bowl; rub together with fingertips until fragrant and set aside.
  • In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter, 1 1/4 cups sugar, and the remaining lemon zest on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
  • Add the egg and egg yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper emulsification.
  • Mix in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract on low speed.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined; do not overmix.
  • Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes to control spread and hydrate the flour.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  • Scoop approximately 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie and roll into smooth spheres.
  • Roll each dough ball in the prepared lemon sugar until evenly coated and place on the baking sheets 2 to 3 inches apart.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set and very lightly golden, ensuring the centers remain soft and slightly puffed.
  • Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.