Embrace the vibrant essence of lemons with our Zesty Lemon Delight Cookies, where each bite offers a burst of sunshine. Crafted with the perfect blend of fresh lemon juice, zest, and a hint of lemon extract, these cookies are the epitome of sweet and zesty harmony. Soft, chewy, and utterly refreshing, they're a testament to the magic that happens when life hands you lemons.
Why You'll Love This:
These cookies are a refreshing departure from the ordinary, offering a light and tangy flavor that's as invigorating as a gentle summer breeze. The addition of homemade lemon sugar adds a subtle crunch and an extra pop of lemony zest that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a citrus aficionado or simply in search of a delightful new treat, these cookies are sure to impress.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for tea parties, spring picnics, or as a cheerful pick-me-up, these Zesty Lemon Delight Cookies will brighten any occasion. They're also a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family, especially those who appreciate the finer, zestier things in life.
Decoration Tips:
For an elegant finish, consider a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice drizzled over the cooled cookies. Garnish with a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest or candied lemon peel for a decorative touch that doubles as a flavor booster. Presenting them on a colorful platter will make these lemony treats even more enticing.
Ingredients:
- 110g of softened salted butter
- 150g of caster sugar
- Zest from 2 vibrant lemons
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of lemon extract (optional but recommended for an intense lemon flavor)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 180g of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
For the Lemon Sugar:
- 50g of caster sugar, more for a sweeter coat
- 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest, for that extra zestiness (optional)
Method:
- Begin by creaming together butter, caster sugar, and the zest of lemons in a large bowl until smooth.
- Mix in the lemon juice, lemon extract, and egg until the mixture is well combined.
- Gently fold in the flour and baking soda, ensuring not to overmix.
- Refrigerate the cookie dough for 1-2 hours to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F).
- Prepare your lemon sugar by combining extra caster sugar with lemon zest in a bowl. Use your fingers to mix, releasing the lemon oils into the sugar.
- Scoop 1-2 heaped tablespoons of the chilled dough, roll into balls, then coat each ball in the lemon sugar.
- Place the sugared dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spaced apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until just set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these Zesty Lemon Delight Cookies, a delightful treat that promises to bring a refreshing twist to your cookie repertoire.
