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April 29, 2025

11 Ingredients
EASY

A tablespoon of fresh lemon zest turns traditional soft and chewy sugar cookies into a bright citrusy treat. The recipe is a Yummly original created by Sara Mellas.

Lemon Sugar Cookies
Lemon Sugar Cookies cover
From the Cook
1/2

Lemon Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

Servings
Milk and 4 other allergens identified

Instructions

1
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Line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. Set aside.
2
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Place the sugar for rolling into a small bowl. Set aside.
3
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Place the softened butter and granulated sugar into a large bowl. Using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, cream together on medium speed for 1 minute, or until combined.
4
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Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and continue to beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, 30 seconds to one minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.
5
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Turn the mixer to low, and add the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture for about 1 minute, until all ingredients are combined.
6
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Form the cookie dough into 20 balls, and place on a small baking sheet or plate. Roll each cookie in the bowl of granulated sugar, and return to the sheet.
7
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Once all the cookies are coated in sugar, place the baking sheet or plate in the freezer. Freeze for 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats.
8
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Preheat the oven to 350°F.
9
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Remove the dough balls from the freezer and transfer to the lined baking sheets. Place the sheets directly into the oven, and bake on middle rack until cookies are just slightly golden brown on the edges and puffy on top, 12-15 minutes.
10
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Check to see that cookies are done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
11
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Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely.
12
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Serve. Leftover cookies may be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or 5 days in the refrigerator.
13
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Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Zest Mastery 🍋
    When zesting lemons, only remove the bright yellow outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Butter Technique 🧈
    Allow butter to soften at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before creaming - this ensures a smoother, more evenly mixed cookie dough with better texture.
  • Chill for Success 🧊
    Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 1 hour before baking to prevent spreading and create a thicker, chewier cookie with more concentrated lemon flavor.
  • Uniform Sizing 📏
    Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure consistent cookie sizes, which guarantees even baking and professional-looking results.
  • Sugar Coating Trick 🍬
    Roll cookie dough balls in extra granulated sugar before baking to create a beautiful crackled surface and add a delightful sugary crunch.

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