Lemon Drop Cookies

Name: Lemon Drop Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 large egg; ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed from 1 to 2 lemons); 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon); ⅓ cup milk; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 ½ tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon); ½ tablespoon lemon zest (from ½ lemon)

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

February 18, 2025

Updated:

February 18, 2025

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Crafting lemon drop cookies brings a little sunshine into your kitchen, and who wouldn’t want that? These sweet treats are not only easy to make but are also a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cookie that bursts with fresh lemon flavor. The tanginess dances perfectly with the sweetness, creating an irresistible blend that makes them a favorite for many. Whether you’re gearing up for a party, looking for a new snack, or simply indulging in a personal treat, this lemon drop cookie recipe is sure to impress.

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Let’s gather around as I share this fun and straightforward recipe. You’ll discover how simple it is to whip up a batch of these bright cookies that are sure to bring smiles to your table. Ready to make lemon drop cookies that everyone will love? Let’s get into it!

Why This Recipe Works

Crafting lemon drop cookies is not only easy but results in a delightful treat bursting with fresh citrus flavors. These cookies are moist, fluffy, and topped with a zesty glaze that perfectly complements the cookie base. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a hint of tartness from the lemon. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe delivers every time, ensuring that your cookies come out perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Drop Cookies

If you’re craving a burst of sunshine in your dessert, these lemon drop cookies are the answer. Their vibrant flavor, soft texture, and tempting glaze make them an irresistible choice for any gathering or simple treat. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, minimizing prep time while maximizing taste. With each bite, you’ll savor a taste of summer, making this cookie a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients for Lemon Drop Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 large egg
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed from 1 to 2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
⅓ cup milk

Glaze Ingredients

1 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1 ½ tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
½ tablespoon lemon zest (from ½ lemon)

The Perfect Dough for Your Lemon Drop Cookies

Preparing Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This temperature ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop a lovely golden brown edge.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside, as it will be incorporated into your wet ingredients later.

Mixing the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar for about 1 minute, or until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.

Adding Egg and Flavor

Add one large egg and the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until thoroughly combined and smooth, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Infusing Citrus Flavor

Next, mix in the lemon juice and lemon zest. This step is crucial for achieving that signature tart flavor that makes these cookies so special.

Incorporating Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Follow this with the milk and continue mixing until smooth. Finally, add the remaining flour mixture, mixing until everything is fully integrated. The dough should be thick and sticky, resembling a very thick cake batter.

Portioning the Dough

Using a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon in size), portion the dough onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, leaving enough space between each scoop.

Baking to Perfection

Place the cookie sheets in the oven and bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the bottom edges are golden brown. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Creating the Zesty Glaze

Mixing the Glaze Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, butter, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This glaze will add the perfect finishing touch to your lemon drop cookies.

Glazing the Cookies

Set the wire racks (with the cooled cookies) over a baking sheet or some foil to catch any excess glaze. Using a spoon, generously top each cookie with a heaping teaspoon of the glaze, spreading it evenly with the back of the spoon.

Allowing to Set

Let the glazed cookies sit for about 15-20 minutes. While the glaze won’t set completely, it will firm up enough to create a beautiful finish without dripping excessively.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your lemon drop cookies as a delightful afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make an adorable addition to cookie platters for parties and gatherings, impressing guests with their vibrant color and zesty flavor.

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for seamless mixing.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Variations

Add a handful of poppy seeds to the dough for a delightful crunch and added texture.
Swap lemon for lime in both the dough and glaze for a tropical twist.

Storage Tips

Keep your lemon drop cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies pair wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade. You might also consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Using fresh lemon juice will yield the best flavor, but bottled juice can be a convenient substitute.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for slight golden edges and a set center. They may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for about 3 months.

What can I do if my glaze is too thick?
If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

How long does the glaze take to set?
The glaze will firm up slightly in about 15-20 minutes but won’t completely harden.

These lemon drop cookies are bound to brighten your day with their cheerful flavor and satisfying taste. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet homemade treat for yourself, these cookies embody a slice of summertime delight. Enjoy making and sharing them with friends and family!

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Lemon Drop Cookies

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Drop Cookies