introduction
These Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies are bright, soft, and easy to make. They have a light lemon taste and a tender bite. If you like simple sugar cookies, you may also enjoy a version with buttercream for more flavor like buttercream sugar cookies which gives a different sweet touch.
why make this recipe
Make these cookies for holiday treats, school parties, or a quick gift. They bake fast, use common ingredients, and give a fresh lemon flavor that feels festive. Kids can help roll and flatten the dough to make shapes.
how to make Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies
Work in clear steps and keep the dough soft. Chill is not needed, so you save time. For softer cookies, follow tips from other soft-cookie recipes like chewy sugar cookies for texture ideas.
Ingredients :
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, and sprinkle with additional sugar if desired.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
- Let cool on wire racks.
how to serve Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies
Serve these cookies at room temperature. Arrange them on a plate or in a box for gifts. You can dust them with a little powdered sugar or add sprinkles for a Christmas look.
how to store Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, put them in a freezer bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
tips to make Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies
- Use room temperature butter and egg for a smooth dough.
- Do not overmix after you add the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Flatten cookies evenly so they bake the same.
- Add more lemon zest for a stronger lemon taste.
- Watch the oven near the end so they do not brown too much.
variation (if any)
- Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped white chocolate for a sweet twist.
- Roll cookies in colored sugar to make them festive for Christmas.
- Use cookie cutters for shapes and increase bake time by 1–2 minutes if larger.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice?
A: Yes. Use about 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract and a little extra milk if the dough seems dry.
Q: How do I keep cookies soft?
A: Do not overbake. Remove when edges turn slightly golden and centers still look soft. Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep moisture.
Q: Can I freeze baked cookies?
A: Yes. Freeze cooled cookies in a single layer on a tray, then move to a bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
For a cut-out style and no-chill method, try this Easy Cut Out Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe for ideas on shaping and quick baking. If you want a softer, chewier lemon cookie, this Easy Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies page shows ways to get a tender result.
Christmas Lemon Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, and sprinkle with additional sugar if desired.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
- Let cool on wire racks.