Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Make a batch of these delicious Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe in just 30 minutes or less with minimal cleanup! These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Each bite is a burst of fresh lemon flavor, and their soft, pillowy texture will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
• Vibrant Flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice make each cookie a refreshing delight that stands out.
• Soft and Chewy: The unique combination of ingredients results in cookies that are perfectly soft on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in.
• Easy to Customize: You can add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to aerate the mixture, ensuring your cookies are light and fluffy.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

Make a batch of these pillowy soft lemon crinkle cookies in 30 minutes or less with just a bowl and a whisk. They bake up moist and buttery with loads of fresh lemon flavor that melts in your mouth. Betcha can’t have just one!

Ingredients:
– 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled for 10 minutes
– 3/4 cup plus two tablespoons (175 g) granulated sugar
– 1 heaping tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
– 1 teaspoon lemon extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, plus one egg yolk, room temperature
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar, sifted

How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your hands to massage the zest into the sugar for about 30 seconds. This allows the oils from the zest to infuse into the sugar, enhancing the lemon flavor in your cookies.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add melted butter, lemon extract, and vanilla extract into the bowl with the sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Crack in one large egg followed by an egg yolk. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Pour in fresh lemon juice and whisk until combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients in two additions. Use a spatula to gently fold until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Shape the Dough Balls

Prepare two bowls with remaining granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Portion out dough into balls weighing about 1 to 1.2 ounces. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar then in powdered sugar, ensuring they are coated generously on all sides.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets spaced about two inches apart. Bake for about 9 to 11 minutes or until cookies are puffy and set at the center. Avoid overbaking as this can lead to dry cookies.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, remove cookies from oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about ten minutes before transferring them carefully onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies!

How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Lemon crinkle cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Their bright flavor and soft texture make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration.

With Tea or Coffee

• Afternoon Delight: Pair your cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing afternoon snack.
• Lemonade Stand: For a summer twist, serve them alongside iced lemonade to complement the citrus flavor.

At Parties

• Dessert Table: Add these cookies to your dessert table for an inviting touch that guests will love.
• Goodie Bags: Package them in small bags as take-home treats for your party guests.

As a Gift

• Homemade Treats: Place the cookies in decorative tins or boxes to give as gifts during holidays or special occasions.
• Care Packages: Include them in care packages to friends and family who would appreciate a sweet surprise.

How to Perfect Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Achieving the perfect lemon crinkle cookies requires a few essential techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and quality butter enhance the flavor of the cookies significantly.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier and helps maintain shape while baking.
• Measuring Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour when measuring. This prevents dense cookies caused by using too much flour.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies. They should be puffy and set in the center; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Roll Generously in Sugar: Ensure each cookie ball is well-coated in both granulated and powdered sugar for that classic crinkle look and taste.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack after baking. This helps maintain their soft texture.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Lemon crinkle cookies are versatile enough to pair with various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
3. Cheese Platter: Include tangy cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar to complement the cookie’s citrus notes.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of lemon crinkle cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent experience.
5. Ice Cream Sundae: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream topped with lemon curd for an extra zesty treat.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet enhances the lemon flavor while providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon crinkle cookies can be delightful, but there are some common missteps to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing and texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
• Skipping the zest massage: Not massaging the lemon zest into the sugar can result in a lack of lemon flavor. Take those extra 30 seconds to ensure maximum flavor.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies caused by excess flour.
• Baking on a hot sheet: Placing cookie dough on a warm baking sheet can lead to spreading and uneven baking. Always use a cool baking sheet for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store lemon crinkle cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat cookies for about 10-15 seconds at a time, checking frequently so they don’t become too soft.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally to warm them evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe that may help enhance your baking experience.

Can I make these lemon crinkle cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll them into balls before freezing or baking.

What if I don’t have lemon extract?

You can substitute lemon extract with additional lemon juice or simply use more lemon zest for flavor enhancement.

How do I get my cookies to be puffy?

Make sure not to overbake them; they should be set but still soft when you take them out of the oven. The right amount of cornstarch also helps create that puffiness.

Can I customize this Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You could add poppy seeds for crunch or even drizzle with icing for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These lemon crinkle cookies are not only soft and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their bright lemon flavor makes them perfect for spring gatherings or as a delightful treat year-round. Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings, and enjoy sharing these delightful cookies with friends and family!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of baking Lemon Crinkle Cookies, a treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your palate. These cookies are quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and vibrant lemon flavor, they are perfect for casual gatherings or festive celebrations. Each cookie is rolled in sugar for a beautiful crinkled look and a sweet finish. Whether you enjoy them with tea, pack them as party favors, or gift them to friends, these lemon crinkle cookies are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

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Ingredients

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• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 heaping tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 2 large eggs (1 egg + 1 yolk)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for coating

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest; massage the zest into the sugar.
3. Add melted butter, lemon extract, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
4. Incorporate eggs one at a time; whisk in fresh lemon juice.
5. In another bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually mix into wet ingredients.
6. Roll dough into balls and coat with granulated and powdered sugar.
7. Bake for 9-11 minutes until puffy; cool before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 35mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 25mg