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Zesty Lemon-Filled Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 32 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Zesty Lemon-Filled Cookies offer a delightful burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Soft and tender cookies are enhanced with fresh lemon zest and juice, then finished with a sweet lemon glaze. Perfect for a refreshing treat or a sunny afternoon snack.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring the texture will be soft and tender.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice thoroughly until fully incorporated, infusing the dough with bright citrus flavor.
  5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cookies tender.
  6. Shape Cookies: Use a tablespoon to scoop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spread during baking.
  7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Glaze and Serve: Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over each cooled cookie and serve for a delightful zesty finish.

Notes

  • For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 2 tablespoons.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for smooth creaming with the sugar.
  • Do not overbake to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.