Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect combination of a soft, chewy texture and a burst of refreshing lemon flavor. With their vibrant yellow hue and powdered sugar coating, these cookies are not only delicious but visually appealing as well. The subtle tanginess from the fresh lemon juice and zest balances out the sweetness, while the crinkly sugar coating gives them a delightful texture. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

The dough is easy to make, and the added lemon zest and juice bring out the bright citrus flavor. If you’re looking for a more intense lemon flavor, you can even incorporate lemon extract. These cookies are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic crinkle cookie, perfect for springtime or any time you want a burst of citrus in your dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. The crispy crinkle texture on the outside, combined with the soft and chewy inside, creates a perfect balance. The lemon flavor is refreshing, but not overwhelming, making these cookies ideal for those who love citrus but want a subtler taste. Plus, they’re easy to make and have a beautiful appearance, making them a great option for holiday cookie tables or casual get-togethers. The vibrant yellow color is an added bonus, adding a fun pop to any cookie plate.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Large egg
• Fresh lemon juice (Note: For a stronger lemon flavor, you can double the amount of lemon juice or use lemon extract)
• Lemon zest
• Vanilla extract
• Yellow food coloring (optional)

For Rolling:

• Granulated sugar
• Powdered sugar (also known as icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

Variations

• Stronger Lemon Flavor: If you prefer a more pronounced lemon taste, add a teaspoon of lemon extract along with the lemon juice and zest.
• Color Options: If you’d like to change up the look of the cookies, you can use different food coloring or omit it entirely for a more natural look.
• Additional Flavorings: Experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a subtle spice that complements the lemon flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough just comes together. If you’re using yellow food coloring, add a few drops and mix until the dough reaches the desired color.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 4: Roll the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the sugar mixture, coating it evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly after removing them from the oven. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step, as it helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you love lemon, consider adding extra zest or lemon extract for a more vibrant flavor.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when done.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in dense cookies, so mix just until everything is combined.

How to Serve

Serve these Lemon Crinkle Cookies with a cup of tea or a cold glass of lemonade for the perfect citrusy pairing. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie trays, birthday parties, or any dessert table. Their vibrant yellow color and bright flavor will surely stand out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. To prevent them from becoming too sticky, you can layer parchment paper between the cookies.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply roll the frozen dough balls in sugar and bake as directed, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cookies on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to soften them up again.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, the food coloring is optional. The cookies will still taste amazing without it, but the coloring adds a fun pop to the cookies.

2. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading excessively. If the dough is too soft, it may cause them to spread too thin.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice provides a better flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind the flavor may not be as vibrant.

4. Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Once they’ve cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to eat.

5. How can I make the lemon flavor stronger?

To make the lemon flavor more pronounced, you can add extra lemon zest, lemon juice, or a few drops of lemon extract.

6. Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cookies.

7. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

8. Can I add other flavors or ingredients?

Yes, feel free to add a handful of white chocolate chips or chopped pistachios to the dough for a different twist.

9. Do I have to roll the cookies in powdered sugar?

The powdered sugar coating is what gives these cookies their signature crinkly appearance and a soft, sweet exterior. If you prefer, you can omit it, but it’s highly recommended for the best texture.

10. Can I make these cookies without the rice flour?

Yes, you can skip the rice flour if you’re following a recipe for gluten-free cookies, or simply substitute it with almond flour. However, using the rice flour gives them a lovely texture.

Conclusion

These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat with a burst of citrus flavor and a beautiful crinkled appearance. With their soft, chewy texture and zesty lemon taste, they’re the perfect addition to any dessert table or cookie jar. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies will never disappoint. They’re simple to make, fun to customize, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Try them today and enjoy a little sunshine in every bite!

Print