Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Introduction
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a delightful chewiness. These cookies feature a crackly, sugar-coated exterior that makes them visually inviting and irresistibly delicious. Whether you are preparing a treat for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a refreshing burst of citrus in every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
flour – 2 cups
baking powder – 1 1/2 teaspoons
salt – 1/4 teaspoon
unsalted butter, softened at room temperature – 1/2 cup
sugar – 1 cup
eggs – 2 large
lemon zest – 2 teaspoons
lemon juice – 3 tablespoons
powdered sugar – for rolling
Optional ingredients
vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon for added depth
yellow food coloring – optional for a vibrant look
Prep Time
The preparation process takes approximately 15 minutes. This involves gathering and prepping the ingredients, mixing the dough, and rolling the cookie dough balls into powdered sugar before baking. The steps are straightforward, allowing even beginner bakers to achieve beautiful results in no time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time: 12 minutes per batch, keeping the cookies soft and chewy while perfectly baked.
Total time: Around 30 minutes, including prep and baking.
Yield: About 24 cookies, depending on the size of your cookie dough balls.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Area
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and mix until well combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
Prepare for Coating
Place powdered sugar in one small bowl and granulated sugar in another.
Roll the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, scoop out equal portions of dough and roll them into balls. First, roll each dough ball in the granulated sugar until coated. Then, roll it in powdered sugar.
Arrange the Dough Balls
Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets. Ensure they are spaced a few inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cooldown Step
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Consistency Check
Ensure the butter for the dough is softened but not melted to achieve the proper consistency in the cookie dough.
Zesting Lemons
When zesting lemons, be careful not to include the white pith as it can add bitterness to the cookies.
Cookie Size Consistency
Using a cookie scoop can help ensure evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly.
Citrus Options
For a different twist, you can experiment with orange or lime zest and juice instead of lemon.
Proper Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the cookie dough balls after coating them in sugar. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
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Cook Techniques
Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential to achieving the signature crinkle look of these cookies. This step allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle and ensuring the cookies bake properly.
Rolling and Coating
Roll the dough into small balls to keep the cookie size uniform. Coat each dough ball generously in powdered sugar to achieve the crinkled effect when the cookies bake and expand.
Proper Baking
Bake cookies until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft, chewy texture. Watch closely near the end of the baking time for best results.
Cooling Before Serving
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and avoids breaking.
FAQ
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll and handle. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Can I skip the powdered sugar coating?
The powdered sugar is essential to achieving the signature crinkled appearance of the cookies. Skipping this step will alter both the look and taste of the cookies.
Why did my cookies not crinkle properly?
Ensure the dough is sufficiently chilled before baking and that each dough ball is generously coated in powdered sugar. Overmixing the dough or overbaking can also affect the crinkling.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the lemon crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen. Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, roll the frozen dough balls in powdered sugar and bake as directed.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Absolutely. Let the cookies cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness and citrusy zest. Their soft, chewy texture combined with a powdered sugar coating makes them a favorite for all occasions. These cookies are simple to make and bring a refreshing twist to traditional cookie recipes. If you’re looking for a dessert that is both crowd-pleasing and bursting with lemony flavor, these cookies are the perfect choice.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Sugar Cookies
Add a tangy citrus glaze for a similar lemony twist to your sugar cookies.
Blueberry Lemon Muffins
Pair your cookies with these muffins for a complementary blend of fruity flavors.
Lemon Bars
For more citrusy goodness, try making zesty lemon bars to serve alongside the cookies.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
This classic cake pairs wonderfully with the cookies to create a citrus-lover’s dessert table.
Homemade Lemonade
Complete the lemony experience by serving lemon crinkle cookies with a refreshing glass of lemonade.
Lemon Cheesecake
Combine the soft cookies with a slice of creamy lemon cheesecake for a decadent treat.
