Lemon Cookies from Scratch

These lemon cookies are baked from scratch with lemon juice, zest, and other simple ingredients for a soft, old-fashioned treat full of bright flavor.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 133 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup butter, softened
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.25 cup confectioners' sugar for rolling

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Add to egg mixture slowly on low speed until just combined. Do not overbeat; dough will be sticky. Cover and chill dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes; it will still be sticky after chilling.

Step 2

Bake in the preheated oven until the centers are just barely set, 11 to 12 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack completely before storing in an airtight container.

Step 3

Gather all ingredients.

Step 4

Beat together sugar, butter, and lemon zest in a large bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Step 5

Whisk together eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla in a small bowl until combined. Beat into butter mixture slowly on low speed.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Form dough into balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, then roll each in confectioners' sugar. Place 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets. Lightly smash each ball down using your hand.